Prospects for Gaza Cease-fire, Hostage Deal Brighten but Obstacles Remain
Negotiations between Israel and Hamas over a potential cease-fire in Gaza are reportedly at their most promising stage yet, according to a senior Arab official speaking to Sky News Arabia. However, the official, who asked to remain anonymous, warned of the unpredictability of both parties, suggesting the possibility of a sudden reversal in progress.
The official said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and some Hamas leaders have personal interests complicating the decision-making process regarding the much-anticipated deal. Netanyahu, he suggested, might reject the agreement due to political considerations, even if Hamas accepts the conditions that align with Israel’s demands.
Representatives from Hamas, Egypt, Qatar, and the US convened in Cairo on Saturday to discuss a potential hostage exchange. Israel, however, refrained from sending representatives, awaiting Hamas’ response to the latest offer.
According to Channel 12, the US assured Hamas that a deal could end the conflict, but an Israeli diplomatic source indicated that Israel remained committed to the war effort, regardless of any potential deal.
The source added that rumors suggesting Israel agreed to end the conflict as part of a hostage deal were false, reiterating that Hamas’ demand for an end to the war has impeded any potential agreement.
