Israel Sends Delegation to Qatar Amid Gaza Ceasefire Talks, Hamas Demands Unacceptable

Israel has decided to send a delegation to Qatar for talks with Hamas on a US-backed proposal for a 60-day Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, despite rejecting Hamas' requested changes as unacceptable. Hamas responded positively to the ceasefire proposal but sought guarantees including protection against renewed hostilities if a permanent truce fails and clarity on Israeli troop withdrawals. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, preparing to meet US President Donald Trump, emphasized that Hamas must be disarmed, a condition Hamas has not accepted. The conflict, reignited by Hamas' attack on southern Israel in October 2023, has resulted in high casualties including over 57,000 Palestinians killed in Israeli retaliatory strikes and around 1,200 Israelis killed. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with ongoing violence, displacement, hunger crises, and attacks affecting civilians and aid workers, complicating ceasefire efforts. Both sides continue negotiations amid international mediation efforts, with cautious hope among Palestinians despite the ongoing violence and political disagreements.