By Humeyra Pamuk and Steve Holland
WASHINGTON - In a major breakthrough, the latest negotiations in Doha to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and a hostage deal have been the most productive in months, according to a senior Biden administration official. The negotiators will reconvene next week in Cairo to finalize the deal.
The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated that all participants have shown a new spirit of cooperation to drive the negotiations to a conclusion. However, he emphasized that there is still work to be done as the deal is complex and challenging.
With the help of mediators from Qatar and Egypt, the U.S. presented a bridging proposal that aims to close all gaps between Israel and Hamas. The past two days in Doha have been described as the most constructive in months, with significant progress made on key issues.
The talks, which began on Thursday, involve Israel and mediators, while Hamas is being kept informed of the progress. The U.S. sent CIA Director Bill Burns and U.S. Middle East envoy Brett McGurk to participate in the negotiations.
There are concerns about a regional escalation following threats from Iran to retaliate against Israel after the assassination of a Hamas leader in Tehran. The negotiations will continue next week to discuss the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is scheduled to travel to Israel on Sunday to further support the peace efforts.
The conflict, which started on Oct. 7, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. Israel reports around 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken by Hamas, while Palestinian health authorities estimate over 40,000 deaths in Gaza, mostly civilians.
Analysis:
The progress in the negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza is a positive development that could potentially bring an end to the violence and loss of life in the region. If successful, the deal could have a significant impact on the lives of Palestinians and Israelis, providing much-needed relief and a path towards peace.
Investors should monitor the situation closely as any resolution to the conflict could have implications for regional stability and market dynamics. A peaceful resolution could lead to increased investment opportunities and economic growth in the region, while continued conflict could have negative repercussions on global markets.
Overall, the progress in the negotiations is a step in the right direction and offers hope for a peaceful resolution to the longstanding conflict in Gaza.