Gaza Negotiations: Hope for Peace Amid Ongoing Strife

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized ongoing challenges in the Gaza conflict Sunday, despite Israel and Hamas agreeing to parts of President Donald Trump's proposed plan for peace. He noted that the success of technical talks regarding hostage releases will quickly reveal the seriousness of both parties' commitments.

Negotiations in Egypt, involving Israeli and Hamas delegations, aim to establish a comprehensive ceasefire agreement. The goal is to avoid the phased approaches of past negotiations that often failed. However, the timeline for a resolution remains uncertain amid continued violence and airstrikes.

Despite hopes stirred by Trump's plan, Palestinian suffering continues, with airstrikes claiming more lives in Gaza. In contrast, optimism in Israel grows, with improved financial markets. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu faces pressure both to conclude the war and to maintain the military campaign, as political tensions mount.

(With inputs from agencies.)