Qatar Says Gaza Truce Deal in "Final Stages": What We Know So Far

Doha — Qatar has announced that negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal are now in their "final stages." The deal aims to end the ongoing conflict and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas since its October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

Key Points:

• Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. Involved: Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have intensified efforts to broker a ceasefire and ensure the release of hostages. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken emphasized that the deal is ready if Hamas agrees.

• Hostage Situation: A total of 94 hostages are still held in Gaza, including 34 reported dead. The proposed deal includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of 1,000 Palestinian prisoners.

• Government Positions: Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Saar have expressed willingness to reach an agreement. However, members of Netanyahu's far-right government, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir, oppose the deal.

• Violence Continues: Despite diplomatic efforts, violence persists. Israeli airstrikes overnight killed at least 18 people in Gaza, and an Israeli airstrike in the Jenin refugee camp killed six Palestinians.

Challenges in the Negotiations:

• Ceasefire and Troop Withdrawals: Major sticking points include disagreements over the permanence of any ceasefire and the scale of humanitarian aid for Palestinians. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has opposed a full withdrawal from Gaza and Palestinian governance of the territory.

• International Efforts: U.S. President Joe Biden and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi have urged both sides to show flexibility for the deal to succeed.

Negotiations are ongoing, with hopes for a resolution soon, but officials caution that no deal has been finalized yet.