#Israel #Hamas #Ceasefire #Qatar
In a significant development, indirect talks for a ceasefire and a prisoner swap between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are set to resume in Doha, the capital of Qatar. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to kick off these discussions before his upcoming trip to the United States, where he is scheduled to meet with President Donald Trump on Monday. Qatar has played a key role as a mediator in this conflict.
Ramesh Khatri, a representative of Kansai Nepal News, commented that while Hamas has shown readiness for the proposed ceasefire supported by the U.S., their reaction to certain demands being deemed ‘unacceptable’ has been noted.
According to a Palestinian official, the talks in Doha will focus on the conditions for a potential ceasefire, exchange of prisoners, reopening of Gaza’s Rafah border crossing, and other related issues. Senior Hamas spokesperson Khalil al-Hayya is leading the discussions from their side, while the Israeli delegation reportedly departed Doha on Sunday afternoon.
Under the proposed plan, Hamas will reportedly release ten living prisoners and return some bodies, while Israel will release some Palestinian detainees. Hamas is also demanding a guarantee of no further military escalation during the ceasefire period, as well as the reinstatement of the UN food distribution system.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, with local residents facing severe food shortages. Karim al-Ras from southern Gaza expressed concern, stating, “We hope for a ceasefire announcement, people are dying of hunger.” The UN Human Rights Office has reported over 500 deaths due to food distribution delays.
The ongoing conflict has resulted in more than 57,400 casualties in Gaza, while Israeli casualties from the October 7, 2023 attack stood at 1,219. The resumption of talks in Doha raises hopes for progress towards a lasting ceasefire, although deep-rooted differences between both parties persist. Analysts believe this news could pave the way for a long-term solution.
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Author: MAYA | HARUTO
Posted at: July 7, 2025 12:00 am
