Ceasefire in Sight: Doha Talks Show Promise for Gaza Peace Agreement

Negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire, involving Israel and Hamas, stalled in Doha but are set to resume next week. Key sticking points include Hamas’s demands for a permanent ceasefire and Israel's conditions for peace. U.S. President Joe Biden highlighted progress but admitted a final agreement remains elusive.

Gaza ceasefire talks in Doha were paused on Friday, with negotiators scheduled to reconvene next week to seek an agreement to end the conflict between Israel and Hamas, and to release remaining hostages. U.S. President Joe Biden stated, "we're not there yet" but noted progress.

The U.S., Qatar, and Egypt issued a joint statement that Washington had proposed a new plan to bridge existing gaps, potentially facilitating a swift deal. Mediators emphasized ongoing efforts to save lives, provide relief to Gaza's residents, and reduce regional tensions.

Months-long negotiations resumed Thursday without direct involvement from Hamas, though the group was kept informed. Persistent issues include Israel's demand for Hamas's disarmament and Hamas's insistence on a permanent ceasefire. Other difficulties include the terms of Palestinian prisoner releases and border control matters.

The latest discussions were deemed the most productive in months, and negotiators aim to finalize an agreement in Cairo next week. Meanwhile, Israeli forces continued operations in Gaza, prompting hundreds of families to flee. The U.N. called for a temporary halt for a polio vaccination campaign in the war-torn region.

(With inputs from agencies.)