On Friday, US President Joe Biden expressed optimism regarding a potential cease-fire deal in the Gaza Strip.
Biden told reporters, “As of an hour ago, it’s still in play. I’m optimistic. Not — it’s far from over. Just a couple more issues. I think we’ve got a shot.” He added that the start date for the cease-fire remains uncertain.
Earlier, Biden emphasized that no one in the Middle East should act in a way that undermines the cease-fire negotiations.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to visit Israel on Saturday to advance the efforts to finalize a cease-fire agreement, which includes exchanging Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.
The visit follows an announcement by the US, Egypt, and Qatar that they have presented a “bridging proposal” to Israel and Hamas. This proposal aims to address the remaining issues and facilitate the swift implementation of the deal.
A joint statement from the US, Egypt, and Qatar described the discussions held over two days in Doha as “serious and constructive,” and conducted in a “positive atmosphere.”
While details of the new proposal were not disclosed, it is said to align with the principles set out by President Biden on May 31, 2024, and Security Council Resolution No. 2735, which endorsed Biden’s proposal.
The statement also noted that senior officials from the three countries will meet again in Cairo before the end of next week to aim for a final agreement based on the terms discussed.
The negotiations involved CIA Director William Burns, Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, Egyptian Intelligence Chief Abbas Kamel, and Israeli Mossad Director David Barnea.
Hamas has declined to join the latest talks, insisting that Tel Aviv adhere to agreements made in July based on a proposal supported by Biden two months prior.
Since Israel’s assault on Gaza began last October, over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, predominantly women and children. Extensive areas of Gaza have been devastated by continuous Israeli bombardment, leaving entire neighborhoods in ruins.
