On 9/7/2023, Hamas stated that significant obstacles remain in the Gaza Strip peace talks. These include allowing free flow of humanitarian aid into the territory, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and "real guarantees" of lasting peace.
However, to demonstrate "necessary flexibility," Hamas declared it would release 10 Israeli hostages, but didn't specify whether they were alive or dead.
"Despite the difficulties in negotiations on the above issues due to Israel's rigid stance, we will continue to cooperate seriously and actively with mediators to overcome obstacles," the statement said.
The announcement came as indirect talks between Hamas and Israel in Doha, Qatar, entered their fourth day. IDF Commander Eyal Zamir said on 9/7/2023 that their military operations in Gaza had laid the groundwork for an agreement to bring the hostages home.
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A demonstration calling for the release of hostages and an end to the fighting in Gaza, Washington, D.C., 7/7. Photo: AFP |
A demonstration calling for the release of hostages and an end to the fighting in Gaza, Washington, D.C., 7/7. Photo: AFP
While still determined to eliminate Hamas, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed confidence that an agreement was near. "I think we are closer to an agreement and there is a high probability that it will be reached," he said.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar believes a temporary agreement is possible, potentially paving the way for long-term peace negotiations. Israeli President Isaac Herzog emphasized this as a "historic opportunity" for change.
The United States also expressed confidence that Israel and Hamas would reach a 60-day ceasefire before the end of the week.
Prime Minister Netanyahu is under increasing domestic and international pressure to end the Gaza operation, especially with the rising Israeli military death toll. The IDF announced on 9/7/2023 that another soldier had been killed in action in Gaza.
A Palestinian source familiar with the Doha talks said the Israeli delegation was "mostly listening, not negotiating, suggesting Netanyahu is still trying to obstruct potential agreements".
Hamas previously rejected calls to release all remaining hostages in Gaza, demanding a full Israeli withdrawal. Israel, meanwhile, seeks to ensure Hamas can no longer threaten its security.
The Gaza conflict erupted in 10/2023 after Hamas launched a coordinated attack on southern Israel, killing over 1,200 people and capturing 251 hostages. Forty-nine are still held in Gaza, 27 of whom Israel believes are dead.
Israel's retaliatory operation in Gaza has killed nearly 58,000 people, mostly civilians, according to local health authorities.
Pham Giang (AFP)
