Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas in Doha have been paused after Hamas rejected new conditions proposed by Israel. The talks, which began on Wednesday, aimed to end the 10-month conflict in Gaza.
Hamas did not attend the talks in Doha, citing Israel’s failure to abide by previous agreements. The group rejected the new conditions, which include keeping Israeli troops inside Gaza.
The US, represented by CIA Director William Burns, offered a “bridging proposal” to close the gaps between the two parties. The White House described the talks as “serious and constructive.”
US President Joe Biden said, “We are closer than we’ve ever been” to a ceasefire in Gaza, but emphasized that a deal has not yet been reached.
Hamas demands a complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli troops, return of displaced persons, and a prisoner exchange deal without restrictions.
The talks are expected to resume in Cairo next week, with Israel asking the US, Qatar, and Egypt to pressure Hamas to accept the new proposal.
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