🔗 Share this article

America's top diplomat stated on Sunday that the conflict in Gaza has not ended, even though the two warring sides accepting elements of a suggested peace plan designed to conclude the almost two-year war.

Logistical Discussions to Reveal Hamas's Seriousness

"We will know soon whether Hamas is committed or not by the progress of logistical discussions regarding the hostage liberation," he told during an interview.

His statements coincided with statements that the militants risk "utter elimination" if it attempts to remain in power in Gaza. Delegations from both sides are set to begin negotiations on Monday, but mediators are dealing with hurdles, such as the process of prisoner exchanges that could delay hopes for a rapid cessation of hostilities.

Two-Part Strategy to Ceasefire Agreement

In a separate interview, the secretary outlined that external discussions are "the most progress made to getting all hostages released".

However, he cautioned that the resolution framework – accepted by both parties including multiple obstacles, such as the weapons surrender – was likely subject to "many complications along the way."

Rubio said he "urges all parties" to consider the agreement as having two stages – initially militants consent to the captive return plan, hostages are released and troops retreat.

Logistical Challenges and Timeline Concerns

But the logistics are uncertain, like the transfer mechanism and who picks them up. "We want to see that take place swiftly," he commented. "The hostage piece must occur extremely quickly."

"I remain optimistic that they will be freed. And in my view there are possibilities," he continued.

As outlined in the agreement, the group would free the outstanding prisoners – about 20 of them presumed surviving – over three days. Conversely, Israeli forces would stop its assault and withdraw from much of the territory, free numerous inmates and enable provision of assistance and eventual reconstruction.

Militant Group's Stance

"Militants are enthusiastic to reach an agreement to end the war and quickly initiate the prisoner exchange process in accordance with the situation on the ground," an informed source stated over the weekend.

However, they cautioned that "Israeli forces should not hinder the application of the ceasefire agreement. If the military has sincere motives to secure a deal, militants are willing."

Subsequent Obstacles

In his comments on Sunday, the secretary explained the subsequent part of the agreement includes talks about the situation following troops retreat and how a new governance structure for Gaza would be created.

"That component that I believe is may become a little tougher to work through, but that will ensure permanency to the cessation of hostilities," he stated.

Additionally, he noted that "everyone has agreed, with Israeli agreement, that eventually, at some point during these developments, Gaza will be governed by a professional Palestinian administration without Hamas involvement, that are not terrorists, guided and helped of an multinational group similar to peacekeeping bodies."