FLASH
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Hamas has announced the start of a new round of ceasefire talks with Israel in Doha, Qatar, just hours after Israeli forces launched a major offensive in the Gaza Strip, dubbed "Operation Gideon's Chariots." According to a Hamas official quoted by Reuters, the negotiations are taking place without preconditions and include all issues, including the release of hostages and a cessation of fighting. However, hopes for a quick breakthrough remain low due to ongoing tensions.
The Israeli offensive, which began on Friday, has intensified airstrikes and troop movements in northern Gaza, with the aim, according to the Israeli military, of pressuring Hamas to release hostages and establish operational control in some areas. According to the Hamas-run health ministry, at least 146 Palestinians have been killed and hundreds more wounded in the past 24 hours, while the total death toll in Gaza since October 2023 has exceeded 53,000.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz called the return of Hamas negotiators to talks a “change from their rigid position until now.” He added that Israel is determined to continue military operations until an agreement is reached for the hostages, of whom 58 still remain in captivity, with about 23 believed to be alive.
Meanwhile, Israel's total humanitarian blockade, in place since March 2, has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. According to the UN, some 2.1 million Gazans face the risk of hunger and disease, with half a million on the brink of starvation. The blockade has been widely condemned by the UN, European and Arab countries, who are calling for an immediate ceasefire.
The international community has increased pressure for a diplomatic solution. The leaders of Qatar and Egypt, who are mediating the talks, are trying to extend the deadline for negotiations, while US President Donald Trump, who recently concluded a visit to the region, has faced calls to exert influence on Israel to ease the crisis.
Families of Israeli hostages have expressed concern that the new offensive could endanger the lives of their loved ones, calling for a quick agreement instead of military action. Hamas, on the other hand, has accused Israel of trying to negotiate "under fire", calling the offensive an attempt to undermine the talks.
As the war in Gaza enters its 20th month, the situation remains extremely tense, with ceasefire talks facing major challenges due to mutual conditions: Hamas demands a complete Israeli withdrawal and an end to the blockade, while Israel insists on Hamas's disarmament and the release of all hostages.
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