US President Joe Biden expressed hope for a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza by Monday. Indirect negotiations between the two sides have shown some progress, with discussions involving aid deliveries to Gaza and the release of hostages taken during previous attacks.
While Israel has not provided any official comments, Hamas officials have indicated that a ceasefire deal might not be as near as President Biden suggested. Qatar, along with Egypt, has been involved in mediating the talks, but no agreement has been announced yet.
The conflict began when Hamas gunmen killed about 1,200 people in southern Israel, leading to a large-scale air and ground campaign by Israel in Gaza. The violence has resulted in a significant number of casualties and destruction in the region.
President Biden mentioned that an agreement might be reached by next Monday, with the possibility of Israel pausing its assault during the upcoming Ramadan period. However, a Hamas official emphasized that the priority is a complete ceasefire and the rebuilding of Gaza.
Criticism has been directed at the US for vetoing a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire. However, efforts are ongoing to find a diplomatic solution to the escalating violence between Israel and Hamas.
In a separate development, Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Mohammed Shtayyeh and his government resigned, potentially paving the way for a technocratic government to take over in the occupied West Bank. The situation remains fluid as efforts continue to bring an end to the conflict and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.