Israel-Hamas war cease-fire talks stretch into second day in Qatar

U.S. officials have reported progress in the ongoing cease-fire talks aimed at ending the Israel-Hamas conflict, with discussions in Doha, Qatar, extending into a second day. The negotiations — involving Israeli, Qatari and Egyptian officials — are focused on securing a cease-fire agreement and the release of hostages. White House National Security Council Communications Advisor John Kirby noted that while some headway has been made, significant gaps remain in implementing the framework of the deal.

Meanwhile, the British and French foreign ministers are making a joint trip to Israel in hopes of stopping the war from turning into a larger regional conflict. 

The talks are crucial to preventing the 10-month conflict from spiraling into a broader regional war, with fears that Iran and Hezbollah could retaliate against Israel. Mediators have been working around the clock to address sticking points, including control over Gaza’s southern border with Egypt and the return of displaced Palestinian civilians.

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The renewed push to end the war comes as the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry said on Thursday, Aug. 15, the death toll in Gaza has surpassed 40,000. Fears remain high that Iran and Hezbollah militants in Lebanon will soon attack Israel in retaliation for the killings of top leaders.

While Hamas has not formally participated in the talks, mediators are relaying messages to its political leadership based in Doha. There are ongoing disputes over specific terms, with Hamas accusing Israel of adding new conditions to the deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has denied these claims, calling them essential clarifications to ensure the agreement’s success.