A breakthrough has been made in efforts to negotiate a framework agreement for a cease-fire deal between Israel and Hamas that could potentially end months of fighting in Gaza and result in the release of hostages. The breakthrough is attributed to a shift in Hamas’ stance on the agreement, aligning with a U.S.-drafted agreement passed by the United Nations Security Council. If a deal is reached, it would bring an end to the prolonged conflict in Gaza, where thousands of people have died, and result in the release of hostages taken during previous attacks. The agreement could also ease tensions at Israel’s northern border with Lebanon, where clashes with Hezbollah have raised fears of a broader conflict. President Joe Biden discussed the details of the deal with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, acknowledging the need for implementation steps. Negotiations are expected to take place in Doha, Qatar, in the coming days, with a U.S. team assisting in finalizing the details of the agreement. The deal would involve multiple phases, including an initial cease-fire, relief for civilians in Gaza, and the release of specific categories of hostages. Subsequent phases would focus on a permanent cease-fire and the release of all remaining hostages and Israeli soldiers held in Gaza. Biden plans to update European partners on progress towards a deal during next week’s NATO summit. Talks are also ongoing to de-escalate tensions between Israel and Hezbollah. A senior administration official stressed the importance of getting the deal right, emphasizing that negotiations are ongoing and nothing is finalized until all aspects are agreed upon.
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U.S. views Israel-Hamas cease-fire negotiations as a ‘breakthrough’
