As calls for a ceasefire intensify amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, US President Joe Biden engaged in dialogue with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu once again. The White House announced on Sunday that amidst Israel’s preparations to target Rafah, the southernmost city in Gaza, where over a million Palestinians seek refuge, President Biden reiterated his firm stance. Notably, the US, along with Egypt, played a significant role in brokering temporary negotiations in November, resulting in the release of numerous hostages. However, Qatar, which hosts Hamas’ headquarters in Doha, recently declared a reassessment of its involvement in the mediation efforts.
In a recent call between Biden and Netanyahu, which lasted about an hour, both leaders agreed on the continued responsibility of Hamas to accept the latest negotiation terms. Biden emphasized the importance of sustained and enhanced delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
While there was no official statement from the Israeli Prime Minister’s office, a Qatari official urged both Israel and Hamas to demonstrate increased commitment and seriousness in the negotiations.
Majed al-Ansari from Qatar’s foreign ministry expressed disappointment with both Hamas and Israel, highlighting decisions driven by political interests rather than the welfare of civilians.
The next phase of negotiations is expected to commence upon the release of hostages and civilians, involving discussions for the release of soldiers and senior Palestinian prisoners, alongside plans for reconstruction.
In the days ahead, an Israeli delegation is slated to discuss the latest negotiation proposals in Egypt, while a Hamas delegation will also engage in talks in Cairo, as confirmed by senior Hamas official Basem Naim.
Earlier this month, Hamas proposed a six-week ceasefire and the release of 40 civilian hostages in exchange for the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
Meanwhile, strained relations between the allies persist due to the US’s humanitarian opposition to the conflict. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit several Middle Eastern nations, including Israel.
Additionally, World Central Kitchen announced its decision to resume operations in Gaza on Monday, after a four-week suspension following the killing of seven aid workers by Israeli military drones. The organization has prepared 276 trucks to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing and is exploring the possibility of using the Ashdod port to offload supplies from Jordan.
(With AP Inputs)