Leaders from the United States, Egypt, and Qatar have urged Israel and Hamas to engage in negotiations scheduled for August 15 to finalize a ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. The three nations, which have been working to mediate the situation, suggested that the talks could be held in either Doha or Cairo. They issued a joint statement saying that a framework agreement is ready, with only implementation details remaining. "There is no further time to waste nor excuses from any party for further delay. It is time to release the hostages, begin the ceasefire, and implement this agreement," the statement said. Additionally, the leaders offered to propose a final solution to address any outstanding issues.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that Israeli negotiators would attend, with the goal of finalizing the agreement's details and implementation. However, Hamas has not yet responded to the announcement.
The joint statement aims to reinvigorate discussions amid concerns of a broader regional conflict involving Iran, following the killings of senior members of Hamas and Hezbollah. A senior U.S. official indicated that there is no expectation for the agreement to be signed by next week, citing challenges such as the timing of exchanges between Hamas and Israel. Progress from both sides is necessary, according to the official.
The U.S. official also stated that the intention of the statement was not to influence Iran, but any escalation could undermine the potential for an Israel-Hamas deal. Meanwhile, Iran's mission to the United Nations announced on Thursday its dual priorities: establishing a lasting ceasefire in Gaza and the withdrawal of occupying forces, and holding accountable those responsible for the July 31 assassination of former Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Iran.
The conflict in Gaza began after Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel on October 7, resulting in 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken to Gaza, according to Israeli reports. The Gaza Health Ministry reports at least 39,699 Palestinian fatalities in the ongoing Israeli military campaign, without distinguishing between combatants and civilians.