Israel says no final agreement has been reached despite renewed diplomatic efforts
Despite fresh diplomatic momentum and reports of progress towards a new ceasefire framework, fighting in Gaza has continued, highlighting the fragile nature of efforts to end nearly two years of conflict.
Israeli air strikes continued over the weekend, with Palestinian health authorities reporting further casualties in Gaza City, Deir al-Balah and Khan Younis. Israeli officials insist military operations will continue until Hamas is verifiably disarmed, while Hamas maintains that any disarmament process must be linked to a complete Israeli withdrawal and a permanent ceasefire.
The latest proposals reportedly envisage a phased process involving the surrender of weapons by Hamas, the destruction of tunnel networks, the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces and the establishment of an interim Palestinian administration supported by an international security presence. Israeli leaders, however, remain sceptical, arguing that intelligence assessments indicate Hamas continues rebuilding its military capability.
The negotiations underline the enormous complexity facing mediators.
Even where broad political agreement appears possible, sequencing remains contentious. Israel seeks verified disarmament before withdrawing troops, while Hamas insists withdrawal must precede any surrender of weapons.
Ceasefire Hopes…
The humanitarian situation also remains severe.
Thousands of civilians continue to depend upon international assistance, while repeated interruptions to aid deliveries have heightened concern among humanitarian agencies operating in the territory. “Questioning The Answers” But Sri Lanka must resist the comforting fiction that two condemned officials can absorb the responsibility of an entire security establishment.
For the wider Middle East, the outcome extends beyond Gaza itself.
