US presents new Gaza ceasefire proposal, mediators describe talks as ‘constructive, positive’

Mediators announced on Friday that the two-day Gaza ceasefire talks concluded and plan to reconvene in Cairo next week to finalise a deal to end the fighting.

Palestinians displaced by the Israeli air and ground offensive on the Gaza Strip flee from Hamad City, following an evacuation order by the Israeli army to leave parts of the southern area of Khan Younis, Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024. (AP Photo/Abdel Kareem Hana)

Ceasefire talks in Doha regarding the ongoing Israel-Hamas war in Gaza were paused on Friday, with negotiators scheduled to meet again next week. They will attempt to reach an agreement to end the fighting between Israel and Hamas and to secure the release of remaining hostages.

A joint statement from Egypt, Qatar, and the United States revealed that the US presented a Gaza ceasefire proposal on Friday. This proposal addresses the remaining gaps, allowing for swift implementation and aligning with the principles outlined by President Joe Biden on May 31, news agency Reuters reported.

The mediators described the talks as constructive and positive, presenting a proposal to both parties and aiming to work out the implementation details in the coming days.

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“The path is now set for that outcome, saving lives, bringing relief to the people of Gaza, and de-escalating regional tensions,” they said in the statement.

Although Hamas did not participate directly, it has expressed doubts about the feasibility of reaching an agreement. The group claimed that the latest proposal differs significantly from the previous version they had agreed to in principle, suggesting they are not inclined to accept it.

“We believe coming out of Doha this is a positive step forward, but it is just a step forward. There’s an awful lot of work that still needs to be done,” White House national security spokesperson John Kirby was quoted as saying by Reuters.

The latest round of talks, which began on Thursday, aimed to end the 10-month war and secure the release of numerous hostages. This potential deal is viewed as crucial to preventing a larger regional conflict.

– With inputs from Agencies

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