Optimism has emerged from ongoing ceasefire negotiations in Doha as Israeli and Hamas officials reported a “breakthrough” in discussions mediated by Qatar, the United States, and Egypt. While significant progress has been made, key issues remain unresolved.
Mediators have presented Hamas with a “final draft” of the ceasefire agreement, according to Israeli officials speaking to Axios. The draft includes a 42-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, during which Hamas is required to release 33 hostages.
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In return, Israel has agreed to begin negotiations on the 16th day of the ceasefire to secure the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for “high-profile” Hamas detainees.
Despite these advancements, significant disagreements persist regarding the establishment of a buffer zone and the continued presence of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in the Gaza Strip.
On the issue of the buffer zone, Hamas has demanded it revert to its pre-war width of 300-500 meters, arguing this is consistent with prior agreements. Israel, however, insists on a two-kilometer-wide buffer zone along Gaza’s eastern and northern boundaries, citing the need to protect Israeli communities in southern Israel from future threats.
The presence of the IDF in Gaza remains another contentious point. Israeli officials have indicated that the IDF will retain control of operationally critical areas, such as the Netzarim and Philadelphi corridors, during the first phase of the ceasefire.
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However, conflicting reports have emerged about the timing and extent of an IDF withdrawal. Some officials have suggested that the IDF will gradually withdraw to the buffer zone, while others stress that a complete withdrawal will not occur until Israel achieves its war objectives, including the safe return of all hostages.
Mediators from Qatar, the US, and Egypt are continuing their efforts to bridge these remaining gaps between the parties. A Hamas official told CNN that discussions about the buffer zone and a permanent ceasefire remain the primary obstacles to finalizing an agreement.
Both sides are expected to continue negotiations in the coming days to address the unresolved issues. Israeli officials have emphasized that any agreement must ensure Israel’s security objectives and the safe return of hostages.
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