As efforts by mediating countries to bring Israel and Hamas closer to a ceasefire agreement in Gaza continue, both sides have accused each other of hindering progress while the fighting continues. Hamas has publicly emphasized the need for a permanent end to the conflict as a condition for any agreement, but Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected this condition, stating that complying with Hamas’ demands would be a defeat for Israel.
Following a meeting in Cairo with Hamas representatives and mediators, Hamas has accused Netanyahu of sabotaging truce efforts. Meanwhile, Israel has not sent a delegation to Cairo and is waiting for a positive development regarding a potential hostage deal before deciding whether to participate in talks. Talks resumed with mediators on Sunday after a previous round failed to make progress.
Israel has threatened to launch a ground attack on Rafah, a city in Gaza, as a means to eliminate Hamas. The United Nations has warned against such an attack without sufficient plans to protect civilians. Despite these warnings, the situation remains tense as negotiations continue in Cairo with both parties unwilling to compromise on their terms for a truce.
