Negotiations over a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza have hit a roadblock as Israel and Hamas were unable to come to an agreement on a framework over the weekend. The main point of contention lies in Hamas' insistence that Israel commits to ending the conflict as part of any deal, a demand that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has rejected, according to Israeli sources.
Despite the impasse, talks have not completely broken down. Efforts to secure a deal are set to continue this week, with some Israeli officials banking on the evacuation orders issued in eastern Rafah to potentially push Hamas into reconsidering its stance. The possibility of an Israeli ground offensive looms if progress is not made.
CIA Director William Burns is actively involved in the negotiations, having recently held talks in Doha and Cairo. A senior official from the Biden administration has indicated that Israel's warnings regarding Rafah are closely tied to the lack of advancement in the ceasefire discussions. Israel is employing pressure tactics on Hamas, with the threat of military action looming if diplomatic efforts fail to yield results.
