Israel and Hamas to Negotiate Gaza Ceasefire in Qatar Amidst Humanitarian Crisis

An Israeli delegation is scheduled to arrive in Qatar to engage in indirect negotiations with Hamas regarding a ceasefire in Gaza. These talks aim to break the deadlock that has persisted for ten days since the initial phase of a previous agreement concluded without progressing further. The negotiations are spurred by Washington's direct dialogue with Hamas, a move that has strained relations with the Israeli government. Meanwhile, Gaza faces a severe humanitarian crisis due to the halt in aid deliveries. Bakeries are closing due to shortages, and long queues are forming for basic necessities like bread. Adding to the crisis, Israel has cut off electricity to a desalination plant, further straining resources. Hamas has condemned these measures as unacceptable. Donald Trump's administration is also engaging in direct talks with Hamas, with envoy Adam Boehler suggesting a potential agreement could be reached soon. Boehler indicated that Hamas proposed a long-term truce in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners, a proposal Netanyahu has previously rejected. However, Hamas clarified that disarmament would only occur within the context of establishing a Palestinian state.