Ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas have restarted in Qatar, despite a dramatic escalation in military action. With Operation Gideon Chariot underway, Israel warns it will intensify its offensive if negotiations fail. Meanwhile, Hamas says it is engaging in dialogue without pre-conditions, hoping diplomacy can stop further devastation in Gaza.
Operation Gideon Chariot: A New Phase in the War
Escalation on the Ground
The Israeli military has launched extensive airstrikes and is mobilizing ground forces for what appears to be a massive new offensive. Tanks and troops are gathering along the Gaza border in preparation for a potential full-scale assault.
A Warning from Israel
Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that Hamas previously refused talks unless the war stopped. But following the bombardments, Hamas agreed to resume negotiations. Still, Israel made it clear: “If the talks do not progress, the operation will continue.”
Hamas Agrees to Ceasefire Talks Without Preconditions
A Diplomatic Shift
Hamas spokesperson Taher al-Nono told Reuters that the group is participating in ceasefire talks “without pre-conditions.” He emphasized Hamas’s commitment to helping mediators find a resolution.
Mounting Civilian Casualties
According to the Hamas-run health ministry, over 150 people were killed in Israeli strikes within 24 hours. Since October 2023, Israel’s military response has reportedly resulted in more than 53,000 deaths, though the figures do not distinguish between civilians and fighters.
Regional and International Reactions
Arab League Summit in Baghdad
Leaders at the Arab League summit pledged efforts toward a ceasefire and promised to assist in Gaza’s future reconstruction. However, tangible progress remains limited.
U.S. Diplomacy Falls Short
President Donald Trump recently concluded a Middle East visit without major breakthroughs. An Israeli defense official confirmed that Operation Gideon Chariot would not begin until after Trump’s departure, indicating the operation’s strategic timing.
Netanyahu’s Strategy: Total Defeat of Hamas
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced plans for a more intense campaign. His cabinet approved steps that may involve seizing Gaza and controlling humanitarian aid. This follows Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack on southern Israel, which left 1,200 people dead and 250 taken hostage.
Israel claims strikes on locations like the European Hospital were necessary due to underground Hamas bases. But investigations from independent analysts like Sky News question the validity of such evidence.
Will Ceasefire Talks Succeed This Time?
Despite the resumed dialogue, both sides remain skeptical. Israel is demanding tangible results, while Hamas insists on negotiating freely. Whether Israel and Hamas can reach a sustainable ceasefire remains uncertain, but with the death toll rising and global pressure mounting, the stakes have never been higher.
