US Secretary of State States Palestinian War Continues as Israel and Hamas Prepare for Discussions

The US secretary of state stated on Sunday that the conflict in Gaza remains unresolved, despite Israeli and Hamas officials accepting elements of a suggested peace plan designed to conclude the long-running conflict.

Operational Negotiations to Determine Hamas Intentions

"We will know soon whether Hamas is serious or not by the outcome of operational negotiations concerning the captives' return," he told on a news program.

These comments coincided with statements that Hamas faces "complete obliteration" if it attempts to remain in control in the territory. Delegations from both sides will engage in discussions in Egypt on Monday, but facilitators are dealing with hurdles, like the prisoner swap procedures that may hinder chances for a quick truce.

Dual-Stage Process to Resolution Framework

Elsewhere, the secretary outlined that external discussions are "the nearest we've been to achieving complete hostage liberation".

However, he cautioned that the resolution framework – endorsed by Israel and Hamas with various challenges, such as the demilitarization of the group – was possibly encountering "numerous difficulties along the way."

The secretary explained he "advises both sides" to consider the process in two parts – initially militants consent to the captive return plan, captives are freed and troops retreat.

Logistical Challenges and Timeline Concerns

However, the practicalities are not definite, including the transfer mechanism and who picks them up. "We hope to witness that happen very quickly," he said. "The captive aspect has to happen with great speed."

"I remain optimistic that they'll be released. And in my view there are possibilities," he continued.

According to the framework, Hamas would release the last captives – around 20 individuals presumed surviving – over three days. Conversely, Israel would halt its offensive and withdraw from significant areas, release hundreds of inmates and permit delivery of assistance and subsequent recovery.

Hamas Position

"Hamas is very keen to secure a deal to end the war and promptly start the swap procedures according to the situation on the ground," an informed source stated over the weekend.

However, they cautioned that "the occupation cannot block the execution of the peace plan. Should Israeli authorities has genuine intentions to secure a deal, Hamas is ready."

Future Difficulties

In his comments on Sunday, the secretary explained the second phase of the plan will involve discussions over developments post Israel pulls back and how a new governance structure for the territory would be formed.

"This aspect that in my view is may become slightly harder to work through, but that will ensure permanency to the end of the conflict," he stated.

He also mentioned that "both sides accept, with Israeli agreement, that eventually, sooner or later as this process plays out, Gaza will be governed by a professional Palestinian administration without Hamas involvement, non-terrorist entities, supported and aided of an international consortium like the board of peace."