The United States, Egypt, and Qatar have released a joint statement calling for Israel and Hamas to resume negotiations for a ceasefire and a deal to release hostages.
The three nations have developed a “framework agreement,” and only a few details remain to be finalized.
The statement, signed by US President Joe Biden, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, and the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, proposes that talks begin on 15 August in either Doha or Cairo. Israel has agreed to send negotiators, but Hamas has not yet responded.
The renewed diplomatic efforts come after Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh was killed last week. Iran has blamed Israel for the assassination and promised a response, though Israel has not commented on the incident.
The joint statement said, “We invite Israel and Hamas to restart talks on 15 August to close all remaining gaps and commence implementation of the deal without further delay.” The statement also mentioned that if needed, the mediators are ready to present a final proposal to resolve remaining issues.
US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin also spoke about the situation. “I have spoken with Israeli Defence Minister Yoav Gallant to brief him on changes to US forces in the region and reinforce my ironclad support for Israel’s defense,” he said. “I also stressed the importance of concluding a ceasefire deal in Gaza that releases the hostages.”
Despite ongoing discussions, a ceasefire and hostage release agreement has been hard to achieve. Hamas wants a ceasefire, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists that the conflict will only end when Hamas is defeated.
On Thursday, Israel continued its attacks on Gaza. Gaza’s Hamas-run civil defense reported that two schools were hit, resulting in more than 18 deaths. The Israeli military said it targeted Hamas command centers.
The situation might become more complicated with Hamas electing Yahya Sinwar as its new leader. Sinwar, seen as an extreme figure, is believed to be responsible for planning the 7 October attacks.
Amid fears of retaliation from Iran, Israel’s security cabinet held its meeting in an underground bunker, according to Israel’s Channel 13.
