Gaza ceasefire talks hit snag over Israeli withdrawal

Talks aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza are stalling over the extent of Israeli forces' withdrawal from the Palestinian territory, according to Palestinian and Israeli sources familiar with the negotiations in Doha. The indirect talks over a US proposal for a 60-day ceasefire are expected to continue despite obstacles in clinching a deal.

A Palestinian source mentioned that Hamas rejected the withdrawal maps proposed by Israel, as they would leave around 40% of the territory under Israeli control. Two Israeli sources stated that Hamas wants Israel to retreat to previous ceasefire lines before the offensive in March.

Challenges related to aid, guarantees for ending the war, and the need for more US intervention were highlighted by the Palestinian source. The White House announced that Mr. Trump's envoy Steve Witkoff, involved in crafting the ceasefire proposal, will join discussions in Doha this week.

Delegations from Israel and Hamas are in Qatar for negotiations on a phased release of hostages, Israeli troop withdrawals, and ending the war. Hamas has demanded an end to the war before freeing remaining hostages, while Israel insists on the release of all hostages and dismantling Hamas.

The war, which began in October 2023, has resulted in significant casualties, displacement, and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The Israeli military has conducted strikes across the territory, targeting various terrorist sites. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the need to neutralize Hamas as a security threat for any long-term ceasefire talks.

According to the source: RTE.ie.