The mediation team consisting of Qatar, Egypt, and the United States is eagerly awaiting Hamas' decision.

The talks to reach a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas have been ongoing, but so far, there have been no signs of a breakthrough, according to Egyptian security sources. The discussions were initiated after CIA director William Burns held meetings with senior officials from Qatar and Egypt in Doha. The proposal, publicly endorsed by US President Joe Biden last week, is considered an Israeli initiative in three phases.

However, on Wednesday, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh dealt a blow to the truce proposal by stating that the group would demand a permanent end to the war in Gaza and Israeli withdrawal as part of any ceasefire plan. This stance contrasts with Israel's willingness to discuss only temporary pauses until Hamas is defeated.

Since a brief week-long truce in November, all attempts to arrange a ceasefire have failed. Hamas has consistently insisted on a permanent resolution to the conflict, while Israel maintains its position on temporary pauses.

The Gaza war initially broke out on October 7th when Hamas launched an attack on Israel, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,200 lives and the capture of over 250 hostages, as reported by Israeli sources.

At present, mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States continue their efforts to bring an end to the ongoing violence. The hope remains that a breakthrough can be achieved, promoting peace and stability in the region.