Aftermaths of Israeli atrocities in war-torn Gaza Photo: AP Aftermaths of Israeli atrocities in war-torn Gaza Photo: AP The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is showing signs of a potential breakthrough. However, the probability of a ceasefire still remains elusive.
As the world watches closely and hopes for an agreement, which could bring an end to a war that has already claimed around 45,000 lives, both sides have put forth complex demands and shifting conditions.
A final agreement is still on the horizon despite some progress in mediation efforts. There are several obstacles, which need to be addressed.
A Delicate Path Toward PeaceStatements made by mediators as well as officials on both sides suggest that a ceasefire is in the offing. However, the process is slow. There are cautious signs of progress.
Israeli radio reports indicate that new conditions imposed by the country could delay the agreement with Hamas. Israel's demand for a full list of hostages held by Hamas has complicated matters. Israel had initially agreed to provide a list of Palestinian prisoners for release in the first phase of a deal, but Hamas is yet provide the requested list.
"Both sides are still working through their differences," said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He emphasised his government is taking a careful approach. "We are moving ahead cautiously. I do not know how long it will take to reach a deal."
maxim99Meanwhile, mediation efforts by the United States, Qatar, Egypt and Turkey continue for halting the 14-month-long war. Some reports suggest that the United States has even pulled out of Doha and signalled that some issues remain unresolved.
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New ComplicationsApart from hostages' list issue, there are several other disagreements. The question of who will govern Gaza after the ceasefire remains contentious, especially when it comes to Israel’s withdrawal, the return of displaced Palestinians and the creation of a new cross-border administration.
Some Israeli reports suggest that progress is possible in the coming days despite the challenges. According to Channel 12, an Israeli TV channel, both sides have reportedly agreed on a list of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for Israeli hostages in the first phase of a potential swap.
However, not everyone is optimistic about the pace of negotiations. Some reports, citing Opposition sources within Israel, claim that Netanyahu’s new conditions are intended to delay the agreement. "Netanyahu’s statements may be meant to slow down the process," said one Israeli Opposition member. He was pointing to the timing of the leak of these new conditions to foreign media.
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Hamas’s Counteroffer, Israel's Internal DivisionsThe situation has become even more complicated with Hamas’s counteroffer. The militant group has demanded a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the release of all hostages in exchange for ending the war. This proposal has added a new layer of tension because Israel has not agreed to such demands.
Israel remains divided on the political front. Opposition leader Yair Lapid has accused Netanyahu of impeding peace efforts. "Netanyahu is leaking new conditions to the media during ongoing talks, which is obstructing the process," he said and added the Israeli prime minister is under intense domestic pressure.
Members of the Netanyahu’s government that include Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, who are strongly opposed to any agreement with Hamas, are further complicating matters.
Israeli Minister Amichai Chikli recently revealed one proposal includes a 42-day ceasefire in the first phase. This temporary halt in military action, according to him, would provide both sides with time to fulfil their responsibilities and complete other stages of the agreement.
South Korea, meanwhile, are placed fourth in the standings with 6 points, with one win, three draws, and one loss. They were surpassed by China, who secured 2 wins and as many points. Korea’s season began with a 5-5 draw against Japan, followed by a 2-2 draw with Pakistan, their first victory with a 3-2 win over China, 3-1 loss at the hands of India and a 3-3 draw against Malaysia in their final pool match.
Mediation Efforts, International PressureEgypt’s diplomatic efforts have also been a key part of the mediation process. A delegation from Egypt arrived in Doha to help restart talks. Reports indicate that the negotiations are in their final stages and that an agreement can be reached within days.
Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on both sides to prevent further escalation. "The situation is tense, but it is progressing cautiously," BBC has quoted an anonymous source involved in the talks. But the issues surrounding the release of prisoners and hostages remain complicated.
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A Rollercoaster Of NegotiationsAn Israeli intelligence and security expert, Yossi Kupferwasser, has cautioned that predicting the outcome of the negotiations is still challenging. "There is no guarantee that something will happen soon. However, there is a chance, but it will require more concessions from both sides," he said.
He claimed Hamas has "weakened" following a "decline" in support from Iran and its allies. This, according to him, does not necessarily make the path to peace any smoother. "The agreement is very complex. Both sides need to make significant concessions," he said.
Describing the negotiations as a "rollercoaster", Kupferwasser said, "One day it seems like there is progress, but the next day, a new obstacle appears."
Though the world waits for a breakthroughfalcon play, the outcome of these intense and fragile talks remains uncertain.
