Leaders from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have jointly called for Israel and Hamas to meet for negotiations on August 15 to finalise a Gaza ceasefire and a hostage release deal. The proposed talks, which could take place in either Doha or Cairo, aim to solidify a framework agreement that is reportedly near completion, with only the details of implementation remaining.
In a statement, the leaders emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating, “There is no further time to waste nor excuses from any party for further delay. It is time to release the hostages, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement.” The statement also offered to present a “final bridging proposal” to resolve outstanding issues.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israeli negotiators would participate in the talks, aiming to finalise and implement the agreement.
This call for negotiations comes amid growing concerns about a potential broader conflict in the region, particularly involving Iran, following the assassination of senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah. A senior U.S. official indicated that while the agreement may not be signed by next week due to unresolved issues, both sides need to make progress.
The U.S. official said the statement was not designed to influence Iran but that any escalation would jeopardize hope of getting an Israel-Hamas deal done.
Iran’s mission to the United Nations said earlier on Thursday that it was pursuing two priorities simultaneously.
“First, establishing a durable ceasefire in Gaza and the withdrawal of the occupiers from this territory,” it said, as well as “punishing the aggressor” for the July 31 assassination of former Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh in Iran.
The war in Gaza was triggered by Hamas’ Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel, in which 1,200 people were killed and 250 taken hostage to Gaza, according to Israeli tallies.
At least 39,699 Palestinians have been killed in the Israeli military campaign in Gaza, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between fighters and civilians.
Melissa Enoch
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