Hey there, world news enthusiasts! 🌍 Big developments are happening in the Middle East. After intense marathon talks in Qatar's vibrant city of Doha, a much-anticipated ceasefire in Gaza appears to be just around the corner! 🕊️
Negotiators from the U.S., Egypt, Qatar, Israel, and Hamas have been burning the midnight oil, trying to hammer out the last bits of an agreement. Majed Al-Ansari, spokesperson for Qatar's foreign ministry, mentioned that both sides have been presented with a text, and they're ironing out the final details. The atmosphere is optimistic! ✨
But hold on, it's not a done deal yet. A senior Hamas official shared that they're still waiting for Israel to submit maps showing how its forces will withdraw from Gaza. It's like waiting for that final puzzle piece to complete the picture! 🧩
Meanwhile, U.S. President Joe Biden, whose administration has been actively participating alongside an envoy of President-elect Donald Trump, noted that a deal is close. Yep, you read that right! Both sides in the U.S. seem to be on board with this one. 🇺🇸
Biden had a chat with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, and they both emphasized the urgent need to implement a deal. According to the White House, \"Both leaders committed to remain in close coordination directly and through their teams over the coming hours.\" Sounds promising, doesn't it? 🤞
Hamas is hopeful too. They believe this round of negotiations could finally lead to an agreement. An Israeli official echoed this sentiment, stating, \"We are close, we are not there yet.\" It's a critical phase, but everyone seems to be moving in the right direction. 🚀
Let's keep our fingers crossed that peace prevails and that the people of Gaza can look forward to calmer days ahead. Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story! 📰
Reference(s):
Gaza ceasefire appears close as U.S., Egypt focus on 'coming hours'
cgtn.com
