Breakthrough Ceasefire Talks Commence in Doha Amid Intensifying Gaza Conflict

Ceasefire discussions have begun in Doha with high-profile international involvement, aiming to end Gaza's bloodshed and facilitate the release of hostages. The talks occur in the wake of a heightened death toll in Gaza and the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, with Iran threatening retaliation against Israel.

A new round of Gaza ceasefire talks kicked off in Doha on Thursday afternoon, involving Israel's spy chief, U.S. officials, Egyptian representatives, and Qatar's prime minister in a high-stakes closed-door meeting. The discussions coincide with Gaza health officials reporting over 40,000 deaths following ten months of conflict.

The negotiations aim to halt the violence in Gaza and secure the release of 115 Israeli and foreign hostages as Iran inches closer to retaliating against Israel after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran on July 31. The United States has mobilized military assets to the region to defend Israel and prevent a wider regional war.

White House national security spokesperson John Kirby confirmed the commencement of talks but noted that a resolution was unlikely on Thursday, with discussions expected to continue Friday. While Hamas abstained from Thursday's meeting, mediators plan to engage Hamas' Doha-based team after the initial session.

(With inputs from agencies.)