Current Status of Cease-Fire Negotiations Between Israel and Hamas

Current Status of Cease-Fire Negotiations

The Biden administration is once again advocating for a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, unveiling a new proposal that aims to address the existing gaps between the two parties. However, this latest U.S. initiative, which builds upon a previous framework, seems to be facing challenges.

Here’s a detailed overview of the developments over months of negotiations and the primary sticking points that have emerged:

What’s the Current Status of the Talks?

Efforts to mediate negotiations, led by the United States in collaboration with Egypt and Qatar, have been progressing slowly since early December. This occurred after hostilities resumed following a brief one-week cease-fire during which Hamas released over 100 individuals from captivity in Gaza, while Israel reciprocated by freeing 240 Palestinian prisoners. In late May, President Biden endorsed a new three-phase plan, which was subsequently supported by a U.N. Security Council resolution.

• Phase One: This phase proposes a six-week cease-fire along with the exchange of hostages for Palestinians currently detained in Israeli prisons. Additionally, individuals displaced from northern Gaza would be permitted to return to their homes, many of which have been left in ruins. During this period, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from densely populated areas of Gaza.
• Phase Two: This phase aims to establish a permanent cease-fire agreement.
• Phase Three: The final phase consists of a multi-year reconstruction plan for Gaza, including provisions for the return of the remains of deceased hostages.

Despite these proposals, Israel and Hamas have remained significantly apart on crucial issues, primarily because their negotiators do not communicate directly with one another.

What is the New U.S. Proposal?

On August 8, amidst the ongoing conflict, which has now entered its 11th month, President Biden, along with the leaders of Egypt and Qatar, announced their willingness to present a “final” cease-fire proposal. Last week, during discussions held in Qatar, the United States introduced what it termed a “bridging proposal” intended to help narrow the existing gaps between Israel and Hamas.