Gaza Ceasefire Talks Hit Snag as Israel and Hamas Trade Accusations
The Israel-Hamas conflict negotiations in Doha are faltering amid mutual accusations. Hamas blames Israel for imposing new conditions, while Israel counters that Hamas is backtracking. Key issues obstructing a ceasefire include the nature of the agreement, Gaza’s future governance, and troop withdrawals, as the humanitarian crisis worsens.
HASSAN BENYOUB 
In the ongoing saga of the Israel-Hamas conflict, recent developments have cast a shadow over hopes for an imminent ceasefire in Gaza. Both parties are now pointing fingers at each other, accusing one another of impeding progress in the negotiations taking place in Doha, Qatar.
Accusations Fly as Talks Stall
Hamas, the Palestinian Islamist movement, claims that Israel has introduced "new conditions" that are hindering the peace process. These conditions reportedly relate to troop withdrawal from Gaza, ceasefire terms, prisoner exchanges, and the return of displaced persons.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office swiftly countered, accusing Hamas of "lying once again" and creating fresh obstacles in the negotiations. The Israeli side insists that Hamas is backtracking on previously agreed-upon points.
Optimism Fades
This exchange of accusations marks a stark contrast to the optimism expressed by both sides in recent days. Just last week, Hamas and other Palestinian groups had stated that a ceasefire agreement was "closer than ever". Similarly, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz had indicated that a deal was nearer than it had been in a long time.
Key Sticking Points
Several issues continue to complicate the path to a ceasefire:
- Nature of the Ceasefire: Disagreement persists over whether the ceasefire should be permanent or temporary.
- Gaza Governance: The future governance of the Gaza Strip after the war remains a contentious issue.
- Israeli Military Control: Israel has stated its intention to maintain military control over Gaza, similar to its presence in the occupied West Bank, even if a deal is reached.
- Troop Withdrawal: Netanyahu has declared that he won't agree to end the war before Hamas withdraws from the Gaza Strip.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens
As negotiations falter, the humanitarian situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate. The death toll among Palestinians has surpassed 45,000, with the majority being civilians, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry. The Israeli military's obstruction of aid, particularly to northern Gaza, has exacerbated the crisis.
International Efforts Continue
Despite the setbacks, international mediators, including the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, persist in their efforts to broker a deal. CIA Director William Burns is expected to arrive in Doha to discuss the latest developments with Qatari officials.
Looking Ahead
The path to peace remains fraught with challenges. As both sides dig in their heels, the international community watches anxiously, hoping for a breakthrough that could bring an end to the 14-month-long conflict and provide relief to the beleaguered civilians caught in the crossfire.
