In a bid to secure a ceasefire in Gaza before the start of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, three days of negotiations between Hamas and international mediators have failed to yield any significant breakthrough. The informal deadline for a deal is fast approaching, adding to the urgency of finding a resolution.

The United States, Qatar, and Egypt have been leading the efforts to broker an agreement. The proposed deal entails Hamas releasing Israeli captives, a six-week ceasefire, the release of certain Palestinian prisoners, and increased aid to Gaza. However, the latest round of talks in Cairo, Egypt, has reached a standstill, leaving the future uncertain.

Al Jazeera correspondent Hamdah Salhut reported that both sides seem to be waiting for the other to make the next move. Israel claims to be waiting for a response from Hamas, while Hamas states that it is awaiting Israel's response. Despite the efforts of mediators attempting to bridge the gaps, unresolved sticking points have hindered progress.

Hamas has refused to release all of the estimated 100 hostages it holds and the remains of approximately 30 more unless Israel ends its offensive, withdraws from Gaza, and releases a significant number of Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences. On the other hand, Israel demands that Hamas provide a list of living captives and specify the ratio for any potential release agreement.

Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan emphasized that his group seeks a permanent ceasefire rather than a temporary six-week pause. He also called for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza to ensure the security and safety of the Palestinian people. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has firmly rejected these demands, vowing to continue the military campaign until Hamas is dismantled, and all captives are returned.

Israel did not send a delegation to the recent talks, further complicating the negotiation process. Meanwhile, the international community, including the United States, is urging Hamas to accept the proposed ceasefire plan. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken reassured that Qatar, the United States, and other partners will persist in their efforts to make the deal a reality.

As discussions have come to a close, Hamas has presented a proposal that will now be discussed with Israel in the coming days, according to Egyptian officials.

The conflict between Hamas and Israel has already seen extensive casualties and destruction. Hamas-led attacks in southern Israel on October 7 resulted in the deaths of at least 1,139 people and the capture of approximately 250 individuals. A temporary ceasefire in November allowed for the release of over 100 captives. Israel's subsequent offensive on Gaza has claimed the lives of more than 30,000 people, predominantly women and children, and left the region in ruins.

The ongoing hostilities have exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly in the severely damaged northern region, where residents are struggling to find food and survive. As the deadline looms, the international community continues to hope for a breakthrough that will bring an end to the violence and restore stability in the region.