Hamas, Qatari, Egyptian Officials Discuss Ceasefire

A Hamas delegation, led by Khalil al-Hayya, met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Egyptian intelligence chief Abbas Kamel to discuss a potential ceasefire and hostage exchange in Gaza. Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to a ceasefire based on a previous US proposal while rejecting any new conditions, particularly concerning Prime Minister Netanyahu's insistence on Israeli control of the Philadelphi Corridor. Despite ongoing negotiations mediated by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, progress remains stagnant due to Hamas's new demands for the release of additional prisoners, which have been identified as a significant obstacle. Reports indicate that the US plans to present a revised framework for negotiations soon, although skepticism about achieving a breakthrough is growing. Calls for a deal have intensified following the recent discovery of hostages' bodies, heightening the urgency for a resolution. Overall, the negotiations face substantial hurdles as both sides maintain entrenched positions.