International efforts are ongoing to secure a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas after more than 10 months of war. Talks in Doha involving officials from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have raised hopes for a potential deal. Meanwhile, the families of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza continue to demand their release, gathering in Tel Aviv to call on the government to take action.
The father of one hostage expressed the urgency of reaching a deal, warning of the possibility of further conflict if an agreement is not reached. Despite optimism from US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Hamas has indicated that no progress has been made and accused mediators of “selling illusions.”
The war, which began with Hamas’ incursion into Israel in October, has resulted in a significant number of casualties on both sides. Israel claims that Hamas is still holding around 110 hostages, while Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza reported a death toll exceeding 40,000.
Efforts to bridge the gaps between the two parties are ongoing, with a proposal for a phased ceasefire presented by President Biden being considered. However, disagreements over the terms of the agreement persist. The mediators are expected to continue working towards a potential deal next week in Cairo, in hopes of ending the long-standing conflict.
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