US Secretary of State Asserts Gaza War Continues as Israel and Militant Group Ready for Discussions

America's top diplomat remarked on Sunday that the conflict in Gaza has not ended, despite both Israel and Hamas endorsing elements of a suggested resolution framework aimed at ending the nearly two-year war.

Technical Talks to Determine Hamas Intentions

"It will become clear soon whether Hamas is serious or not by the outcome of operational negotiations concerning the hostage liberation," he told on a news program.

These comments came as statements that the militants risk "total destruction" if it insists on staying in authority in the region. Delegations from both sides are preparing for negotiations on the coming week, but intermediaries are encountering obstacles, like the exchange mechanisms that could delay prospects for an immediate ceasefire.

Two-Phase Approach to Ceasefire Agreement

During another appearance, Rubio explained that external discussions are "the nearest we've been to achieving complete hostage liberation".

However, he cautioned that the administration's peace plan – which both sides have agreed to including multiple obstacles, such as the demilitarization of the group – was probably facing "numerous difficulties along the way."

The secretary explained he "would encourage everyone" to think about the agreement as having two stages – one in which the group agrees to the hostage liberation structure, prisoners are let go and troops retreat.

Operational Hurdles and Timeline Concerns

However, the practicalities are uncertain, such as the swap procedure and receiving parties. "We hope to witness that take place swiftly," he stated. "This element has to happen with great speed."

"I do have hope that they'll be released. And in my view there's chances," he continued.

Under the proposed plan, militants would let go the remaining 48 hostages – around 20 individuals believed to be alive – in a 72-hour period. As compensation, the military would cease its offensive and withdraw from much of the territory, free numerous detainees and permit delivery of humanitarian aid and future rebuilding.

Militant Group's Stance

"The group is eager to secure a deal to stop the conflict and immediately begin the captive transfer in accordance with the current circumstances," a Palestinian source stated over the weekend.

Yet they noted that "Israeli forces should not hinder the execution of the ceasefire agreement. If the military has genuine intentions to reach an agreement, militants are willing."

Future Difficulties

During his remarks on the weekend, he detailed the next stage of the plan will involve negotiations concerning developments post withdrawal occurs and how a new governance structure for the region would be established.

"That component that in my view is going to be slightly harder to address, but this will guarantee permanency to the resolution of fighting," he explained.

He also mentioned that "both sides accept, including Israel, that eventually, at some point during these developments, Gaza will be governed by a expert Palestinian body that's not Hamas, non-terrorist entities, with the help and assistance of an international consortium like the board of peace."