Efforts to agree on a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza have hit a roadblock, with mediator Qatar stating that recent talks were "not very promising." The discussions, involving senior officials from the US, Israel, Egypt, and Qatar, have been taking place in Cairo to broker a pause in the fighting. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans to move forward with a ground invasion of Rafah, despite growing international pressure urging restraint.

Hamas has blamed Israel for the lack of progress in reaching a ceasefire deal, citing Israel's refusal to meet their demands, including the exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners and a full withdrawal of Israeli forces. The group has also called for an end to the war after a proposed 135-day pause in fighting, divided into three phases.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated after Hamas-led gunmen launched a surprise attack on Israeli territory on October 7, resulting in casualties on both sides. The Hamas-run health ministry reported that over 28,800 people, mainly women and children, have been killed in Israel's campaign. Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated his goal of destroying Hamas and vowed to fight until Israel achieves "absolute victory," dismissing Hamas's demands as "delusional."

President Joe Biden has urged Israel to refrain from launching an offensive in Rafah without a proper plan to ensure civilian safety. Meanwhile, thousands of protesters took to the streets in Tel Aviv calling for early elections, amidst domestic pressure for the return of hostages held in Gaza. Aid agencies have expressed growing concerns over the lack of essential supplies, including food, water, and medicine, in Gaza.

As the situation remains tense, with threats of suspending talks and demands for relief supplies, the fate of a ceasefire to end the Israel-Gaza conflict hangs in the balance.