A new round of indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel began in the Qatari capital, Doha, on Saturday, according to Taher al-Nono, the media advisor to the head of Hamas's political bureau, in a statement to "Asharq." Al-Nono clarified that this round started without any preconditions from either side and addresses all issues, especially ending the war, withdrawal, and prisoner exchange.

Hamas's Position: A Comprehensive Agreement or Nothing

Al-Nono pointed out that Hamas is ready to reach an immediate agreement provided there is a permanent ceasefire, complete withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and a prisoner exchange, in addition to allowing humanitarian aid into the sector facing a famine crisis. However, this round has not achieved any significant breakthrough in reaching a ceasefire agreement, despite U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to the region, which aimed to push efforts towards a truce or to bring in aid to Gaza.

The U.S. Position: Waiting for a Breakthrough

According to a source familiar with the negotiation process, the Qatari and Turkish efforts have not succeeded in arranging a direct meeting between the Hamas delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya and U.S. officials, including Witkoff, during Trump's visit which lasted Wednesday and Thursday. The source clarified that the U.S. side was waiting for a real breakthrough to be able to announce a truce agreement.

Substantive Disagreements Between the Parties

The disagreements revolve around the type of agreement desired: Israel is seeking a "temporary partial" agreement based on Witkoff's vision, which includes the release of half of the living Israeli captives in exchange for a number of Palestinian prisoners, with a ceasefire that lasts from 45 to 70 days and a gradual withdrawal, without declaring a permanent end to the war.

In contrast, Hamas demands a "comprehensive" agreement that includes a complete ceasefire, total withdrawal from the sector, and the formation of a committee of technocrats to manage Gaza in preparation for reconstruction.

Israeli Stubbornness and Hamas's Demands

Taher al-Nono accused the Israeli government of insincerity, affirming that the occupation rejected all proposals submitted by mediators and did not present any serious suggestions during the talks. He explained that the Israeli delegation insists on releasing only ten captives, while Hamas offers to release all detainees at once.

According to Israeli reports, Hamas and other Palestinian factions hold about 59 Israelis, including 21 who are still alive, while the movement has not disclosed the actual number of detainees.

Prospects for a Solution

Diplomatic efforts by international mediators continue to end the war and bring in aid, despite the unyielding Israeli stance that insists on continuing military operations, complicating the chances for reaching a comprehensive and sustainable agreement.