Overview of the Israel-Hamas Conflict and Ongoing Mediation Efforts

Overview of the Ongoing Conflict Between Israel and Hamas

The war between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip has now extended beyond 10 months, punctuated by only a single weeklong pause in hostilities, which occurred in late November. This temporary cease-fire facilitated the return of 50 Israeli hostages who had been captured during the surprise Hamas-led attack on October 7, in exchange for 150 Palestinian prisoners. This exchange momentarily raised the hopes of mediators and the international community for a subsequent agreement.

However, those hopes have repeatedly been dashed over the ensuing months, as various mediation efforts have failed to produce a lasting resolution. Meanwhile, tensions across the Middle East have intensified, particularly in light of recent events, including the assassinations of a high-ranking Hezbollah commander in Lebanon and a Hamas leader in Iran. These developments have prompted stern vows from both Iran and Hezbollah to retaliate against Israel.

World leaders who are keen to prevent a broader conflict believe that a negotiated agreement between Israel and Hamas could serve as a critical measure to avert escalation. Nonetheless, even the most ardent advocates for a cease-fire acknowledge that reaching a consensus will be challenging. President Biden expressed his determination on Tuesday, stating to reporters that he was “not giving up” on securing an agreement, despite acknowledging that the situation was “getting harder” to navigate.

On Thursday, negotiators are set to convene in Doha, Qatar, in a bid to reach a resolution. Below is a timeline of significant recent discussions:

• May: President Biden Calls for an End to Hostilities

  On May 31, President Biden declared that Hamas was no longer capable of executing a major terrorist assault on Israel and urged for an end to the conflict in Gaza. He endorsed a new cease-fire proposal that had been put forth by Israel as a means to facilitate the release of hostages. “It’s time for this war to end, for the day after to begin,” Mr. Biden stated, labeling the moment as “decisive.” He emphasized that the responsibility lay with Hamas to engage in negotiations, saying, “Israel has outlined their proposal. Hamas claims it desires a cease-fire. This agreement presents an opportunity to demonstrate their sincerity.”

• June: U.N. Security Council Passes Cease-Fire Resolution

  On June 10, the United Nations Security Council approved a cease-fire plan that received backing from the United States, with 14 nations voting in favor and Russia abstaining. Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the American ambassador to the United Nations, announced that the United States would actively work to ensure Israel’s compliance with the agreement, while Qatar and Egypt would endeavor to bring Hamas to the negotiation table.