Qatari Mediators have presented to Israel and Hamas a final draft of a ceasefire deal to end the ongoing war in Gaza. This is according to information obtained from an official familiar with the negotiations. The draft which aimed at securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages, was delivered on Monday during talks in Doha. This is shortly after a breakthrough midnight talk attended by envoys of the outgoing Biden and incoming Trump administration.
Key Participants in the Talks
The negotiations, facilitated by Qatar, were attended by top officials, including the heads of Israel’s Mossad and Shin Bet agencies and Qatar’s prime minister. Outgoing Biden administration envoy Brett McGurk envoy for the Biden admissions and Steve Witkoff, U.S envoy for Trump also participated in the talks that led to the breakthrough.
Qatar’s ruling emir, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, also held discussions with a senior Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya.
Progress and Challenges
Officials have described the draft as a “breakthrough,” with the next 24 hours deemed crucial for reaching an agreement. An unnamed Hamas official indicated progress on key issues, though unresolved matters remain. Meanwhile, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar acknowledged improved negotiations and expressed gratitude for U.S. efforts, coordinated between the Biden and Trump teams.
The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have been working for over a year to mediate a resolution to the Gaza conflict. An Egyptian security official noted that while the draft is not the final agreement, it seeks to address core issues that have stalled previous negotiations.
Bottom Line: A hopeful future
Both sides have been briefed on the ceasefire draft, but no formal confirmation or comment has been issued by Israel, Hamas, or Qatar’s foreign ministry. However, hopes remain high for a breakthrough to end the prolonged conflict.
