Negotiators are on the verge of finalizing a ceasefire agreement in Gaza after marathon talks in Qatar that have lasted over eight hours. The United States and Egyptian leaders have pledged to maintain close contact as discussions hone in on the final details expected to be resolved in the coming hours.
The intensive negotiations in Doha have fueled optimism among officials from Qatar, Egypt, the U.S., Israel, and Hamas. An agreement for a truce in the besieged enclave and the release of hostages appears closer than ever.
Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, announced at a news conference that both sides have been presented with a text, and discussions are ongoing to finalize the last details.
However, a senior Hamas official indicated late on Tuesday that the Palestinian group has not yet delivered its response, as it awaits Israel’s submission of maps outlining how its forces would withdraw from Gaza.
U.S. President Joe Biden, whose administration has been participating alongside an envoy of President-elect Donald Trump, expressed optimism that a deal is close. Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi discussed the progress of the negotiations on Tuesday.
"Both leaders committed to remain in close coordination directly and through their teams over the coming hours," the White House stated following their telephone call. The two presidents "emphasized the urgent need for a deal to be implemented."
Hamas expressed that the talks have reached the final steps, hoping this round of negotiations will lead to an agreement. An Israeli official noted that discussions have entered a critical phase, although some details still need to be resolved: "We are close; we are not there yet."
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Gaza ceasefire appears close as U.S., Egypt focus on 'coming hours'
cgtn.com
