The deadlock in Gaza ceasefire negotiations underscores the grim reality of a conflict where humanitarian considerations remain secondary to political leverage. While proposals for extending the fragile truce continue to emerge, the refusal of both Israel and Hamas to compromise on key demands reflects a deeper problem: an entrenched cycle of mistrust and zero-sum bargaining. The current impasse may well prolong the suffering of millions of civilians already devastated by months of war. The United States’ attempt to mediate an extension of the ceasefire offered a temporary lifeline. The proposal aimed to secure the release of remaining hostages and prisoners, while allowing humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza’s shattered landscape.

Yet, the negotiations have stumbled over two central issues ~ Isra el’s military presence in Gaza and the release terms for hostages and prisoners. Hamas demands a full Israeli troop withdrawal,........

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