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Sunday 22/02/2026

Gaza Ceasefire Talks Stall Amid Humanitarian Crisis and Diplomatic Efforts

Diplomats and leaders in tense ceasefire talks
Ethan BrooksEthan Brooks

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Indirect ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas in Doha ended without a breakthrough, with mediators from Qatar and Egypt facilitating the discussions.
  • Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to meet with US President Donald Trump, hoping to advance ceasefire efforts and discuss the release of hostages.
  • The ongoing conflict has resulted in severe humanitarian conditions in Gaza, with over 57,000 civilians killed and widespread displacement.
  • Hamas has responded positively to a US-sponsored ceasefire proposal, but significant gaps remain between the parties' demands.
  • The Israeli military continues its offensive, striking 130 Hamas targets recently, while Gaza faces an 11-week blockade impacting aid and resources.

The latest round of indirect ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas concluded in Doha without significant progress, as reported by a Palestinian official familiar with the discussions. The talks, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, lasted nearly three and a half hours but failed to bridge the substantial gaps between the two sides. Despite the lack of a breakthrough, discussions are expected to resume, with mediators planning separate meetings with each delegation to address the sticking points.

Diplomatic Efforts and Political Maneuvers

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington, aiming to bolster efforts towards a ceasefire and discuss the release of hostages held by Hamas. Netanyahu has emphasized his commitment to three key objectives: the return of hostages, the dismantling of Hamas's capabilities, and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel. However, the Israeli delegation in Doha reportedly lacked the authority to finalize an agreement, complicating the negotiation process.

Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza

The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire, with the ongoing conflict displacing nearly the entire 2.3 million population multiple times. The Israeli offensive, triggered by a Hamas raid in October 2023, has resulted in over 57,000 civilian deaths and widespread destruction. The 11-week blockade imposed by Israel has exacerbated the crisis, leading to severe shortages of food and medical supplies. Residents like Um Fadi Ma’rouf express exhaustion and desperation, hoping for a resolution to the relentless conflict.

Challenges in Reaching a Ceasefire

Hamas has shown a positive response to a US-sponsored ceasefire proposal, yet significant differences persist. The group insists on conditions such as an end to hostilities and the withdrawal of Israeli troops, demands previously rejected by Israel. As the Israeli military continues its operations, striking 130 Hamas targets recently, the cost in civilian lives continues to rise, highlighting the urgent need for a diplomatic solution.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

The continuation of indirect talks mediated by Qatar and Egypt offers a glimmer of hope for a potential ceasefire, though significant challenges remain. Netanyahu's meeting with Trump could play a pivotal role in shaping the diplomatic landscape, potentially leading to increased US involvement in the negotiations. However, the entrenched positions of both Israel and Hamas suggest that any agreement will require substantial concessions. The humanitarian crisis in Gaza underscores the urgency of reaching a resolution, as prolonged conflict risks further destabilizing the region and exacerbating the suffering of civilians.