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The US secretary of state stated on the weekend that the war in Gaza continues, although both Israel and Hamas accepting aspects of a suggested ceasefire agreement designed to conclude the nearly two-year war.

Logistical Discussions to Show Militant Group's Commitment

"It will become clear soon whether Hamas is committed or not by the outcome of operational negotiations regarding the captives' return," the secretary stated during an interview.

These comments came as declarations that Hamas faces "total destruction" if it insists on staying in authority in Gaza. Representatives will engage in negotiations on Monday, but mediators are dealing with hurdles, such as the process of prisoner exchanges that might postpone chances for a quick truce.

Dual-Stage Process to Resolution Framework

In a separate interview, the secretary outlined that third-party peace negotiations are "the most progress made to achieving complete hostage liberation".

Yet he noted that the administration's peace plan – which both sides have agreed to subject to multiple obstacles, like the weapons surrender – was possibly encountering "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

He stated he "advises both sides" to consider the plan in two phases – one in which Hamas has accepted to the hostage liberation structure, captives are freed and Israel pulls back.

Operational Hurdles and Timeframe Issues

However, the practicalities are not definite, including the process of exchange and who picks them up. "We want to see that occur rapidly," he stated. "The hostage piece must occur extremely quickly."

"I do have hope that they will be freed. And in my view opportunities exist," he continued.

As outlined in the agreement, Hamas would release the remaining 48 hostages – about 20 of them presumed surviving – in a 72-hour period. In return, Israel would halt its offensive and pull out of significant areas, release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and allow an influx of humanitarian aid and future rebuilding.

Organization's Viewpoint

"Hamas is very keen to reach an agreement to cease hostilities and immediately begin the captive transfer in accordance with the situation on the ground," an informed source said Sunday.

But they warned that "Israeli forces must not obstruct the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. If the military has genuine intentions to conclude arrangements, militants are willing."

Second Phase Challenges

During his remarks on the weekend, the secretary explained the subsequent part of the framework contains discussions over what happens after withdrawal occurs and how a new governance structure for Gaza would be created.

"That component that I think is going to be somewhat more difficult to resolve, but that's what's going to provide a lasting the end of the conflict," he stated.

Furthermore, he revealed that "both sides accept, with Israeli agreement, that eventually, sooner or later throughout these proceedings, the region will be led by a expert Palestinian body that's not Hamas, non-terrorist entities, guided and helped of an global coalition similar to peacekeeping bodies."