In a new push towards a Gaza ceasefire, Israel has submitted a revised proposal to Qatari mediators, offering a partial pullback from the Morag Corridor in southern Gaza. This corridor, once a fortified military zone between Rafah and Khan Younis, now sits at the heart of indirect talks aimed at swapping hostages for a truce.
The updated map unveiled this week in Doha marks what Israeli officials describe as significant movement after months of stalled negotiations. If adopted, it would see troops retreat from key sections of the enclave they seized in April—areas where entire neighborhoods were razed to form security zones. Previous Israeli positions barred any withdrawal, making this reversal a notable shift.
Hostage Diplomacy and High-Stakes Talks
The ceasefire-for-hostages deal under discussion in Doha hinges on a 60-day truce, the release of 10 living hostages and the return of other remains. Israel, which says around 50 people remain in Gaza captivity and about 20 are believed to be alive, is pushing to secure every life before agreeing to a full ceasefire.
U.S. President Donald Trump commented that negotiations are nearing a breakthrough but cautioned that nothing is certain. His recent meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House focused on the roadmap for talks, though no public breakthrough was announced.
Hamas Stance and Remaining Hurdles
Hamas confirmed it will free 10 hostages as a goodwill gesture, signaling some openness to the framework. Yet Palestinian Islamic Jihad leaders say key disagreements remain over the extent of Israeli withdrawal, the flow of humanitarian aid, and guarantees for Gaza’s post-truce phase.
Expert Insight: A Clash of Core Goals
Professor Niu Xinchun from the China-Arab States Research Institute at Ningxia University warns the deal’s fragility reflects core goal conflicts. He argues that while Hamas seeks a permanent ceasefire to ensure its survival, Israel aims to rescue all hostages and neutralize Hamas—making a permanent truce difficult without concessions.
As indirect talks resume, both sides face mounting pressure to bridge these gaps. For global citizens, entrepreneurs, changemakers, and digital nomads, the outcome in Doha could chart a new course for peace and regional stability.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
