Israel and Hamas are pointing fingers at each other for the recent delays in finalizing a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The latest talks, held in Doha and facilitated by Qatar and Egypt, seemed to be making headway, with Hamas declaring that the negotiations were \"progressing seriously.\" However, the Palestinian group accused Israel of introducing new conditions related to key issues such as Gaza withdrawal, the ceasefire terms, prisoners, and the return of displaced individuals. According to Hamas, these additional demands have hindered reaching an otherwise attainable agreement.
On the other side, the office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refuted Hamas's claims, stating that the Palestinian side had reneged on previously agreed terms, thereby obstructing the negotiations. Despite the setbacks, Israel remains committed to its efforts to secure the return of hostages.
The talks saw Israel recalling its delegation from Doha after a week of what officials described as \"meaningful\" discussions. The delegation returned home for internal reviews to determine the next steps in the negotiations for hostage return.
Previous negotiation attempts have stumbled over issues like the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza and the duration of any proposed ceasefire. Hamas is firm on ending the conflict entirely, while Israel demands the removal of Hamas' control in Gaza and plans to maintain a military presence there even post-ceasefire.
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Israel, Hamas trade blame for delays in reaching Gaza ceasefire deal
cgtn.com