Amidst a devastating 14-month war in Gaza, US-led mediation efforts are underway to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. Israeli airstrikes have killed numerous Palestinians, while negotiations continue in Cairo, focusing on a prisoner exchange. Despite progress, disagreements over Israel’s military presence in Gaza and hostage release persist, hindering a lasting peace.
The fate of 120 Israeli hostages remains uncertain in Gaza, casting doubt over a purported ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas. A Hamas official claims ignorance of the hostages’ well-being, alleging Israeli actions have endangered their lives. Negotiations on a US-backed ceasefire proposal have hit a snag, with Hamas rejecting Israel’s short-term ceasefire and demanding a permanent end to hostilities, among other conditions.
