Gaza Truce Talks Stall Over Israeli Withdrawal Scope

(Patria) - Talks aimed at securing a truce in the Gaza Strip are stalling over the scope of Israeli forces' withdrawal from the Palestinian enclave, sources familiar with the negotiations in Doha told reporters yesterday.

However, indirect talks over a US proposal for a 60-day truce are still expected to continue, the sources said, despite new obstacles in the effort to reach an agreement.

A Palestinian source said Hamas rejected Israel's proposed withdrawal, explaining that it would leave about 40 percent of the territory under Israeli control, including the entire southern part of Rafah, as well as other areas in northern and eastern Gaza.

Two Israeli sources said Hamas wants Israel to withdraw to the lines it held during the previous truce before launching a renewed offensive in March.

A Palestinian source stated that issues related to aid and guarantees for a ceasefire also pose a problem, adding that the crisis could be resolved with stronger US intervention.

The White House announced on Monday that Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff, who played a major role in drafting the latest ceasefire proposal, will travel to Doha this week to join the discussions.

Delegations from Israel and Hamas have been in Qatar since Sunday, again attempting to reach an agreement that includes the gradual release of hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli military troops, and discussions on a complete end to the war.

Hamas has long sought an end to the war before deciding to release the remaining Israeli hostages, but Israel insists that fighting will only cease once all hostages are released and Hamas is disbanded.