Future of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Hinges on Militant Leader's Decision

The potential for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain, largely dependent on the actions of Hamas' leader, according to Deputy CIA Director David Cohen. Mediators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar continue to work on negotiations to avert a broader regional conflict.

The potential for a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas remains uncertain, largely dependent on the actions of Hamas' leader, according to Deputy CIA Director David Cohen. Cohen, speaking at an intelligence and national security summit in Washington, emphasized that the Israelis were showing seriousness in the negotiations.

Mediators from the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar have been actively working to broker a deal and prevent a broader regional conflict. Cohen noted the complexity of the efforts, stating, there may be episodes where people would step back from the brink, but I don't think anybody can be confident that that effort to control escalation is something that ... any party in that region can control.

(With inputs from agencies.)