Marco Rubio Says Palestinian War Continues as Israeli Forces and Hamas Prepare for Negotiations

America's top diplomat stated on the weekend that the conflict in Gaza has not ended, although Israeli and Hamas officials accepting elements of a outlined peace plan to end the long-running conflict.

Operational Negotiations to Determine Militant Group's Commitment

"We will see shortly whether the group is genuine or not by how these technical talks proceed concerning the captives' return," he told in a television appearance.

The remarks coincided with declarations that the militants risk "utter elimination" if it attempts to remain in power in Gaza. Representatives are preparing for negotiations on Monday, but intermediaries are facing roadblocks, such as the prisoner swap procedures that may hinder hopes for a rapid cessation of hostilities.

Two-Phase Approach to Resolution Framework

Elsewhere, the secretary outlined that mediated talks are "the most progress made to securing all captives' freedom".

But he warned that the proposed agreement – which both sides have agreed to including several sticking points, such as the weapons surrender – was possibly encountering "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

The secretary explained he "would encourage everyone" to consider the agreement as having two stages – the first where the group agrees to the hostage liberation structure, hostages are released and Israeli forces withdraw.

Operational Hurdles and Schedule Pressures

However, the practicalities are not definite, like the process of exchange and who picks them up. "We want to see that take place swiftly," he commented. "The captive aspect needs to proceed extremely quickly."

"I remain optimistic that their liberation will occur. And I think opportunities exist," he continued.

According to the framework, militants would let go the last captives – approximately two dozen presumed surviving – within three days. As compensation, Israel would halt its operations and retreat from significant areas, free numerous Palestinian prisoners and permit delivery of assistance and eventual reconstruction.

Organization's Viewpoint

"Hamas is very keen to reach an agreement to stop the conflict and immediately begin the captive transfer according to the field conditions," officials stated over the weekend.

Yet they noted that "the occupation must not obstruct the execution of the resolution framework. Should Israeli authorities has sincere motives to conclude arrangements, the group is prepared."

Future Difficulties

In his comments on Sunday, the secretary explained the subsequent part of the framework contains discussions over the situation following withdrawal occurs and the establishment of new administration for the region would be established.

"This aspect that I believe is going to be a little tougher to work through, but that's what's going to provide a lasting the resolution of fighting," he told.

Furthermore, he revealed that "all parties concur, including Israel, that ultimately, sooner or later during these developments, the region will be led by a expert Palestinian body without Hamas involvement, without terrorist affiliations, with the help and assistance of an global coalition similar to peacekeeping bodies."

George Smith
George Smith

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