Gaza Ceasefire Talks Stall With Hostage Release at the Center of Dispute

Negotiations between Israel and Hamas face delays as both sides trade blame over unresolved issues, including the release of hostages.

The White House remains optimistic about securing a Gaza ceasefire before President Biden leaves office, despite stalled negotiations and mounting challenges.
The primary sticking point in the talks is Hamas' refusal to provide a full list of living hostages, raising concerns about their fate and complicating the deal.
Israel accuses Hamas of reneging on previously agreed terms, while Hamas claims Israel introduced new demands, creating a deadlock in discussions mediated by Qatar and Egypt.
Approximately 100 hostages remain in Gaza, with Israeli intelligence estimating that only half are still alive, including seven Americans, heightening urgency for a resolution.
President-elect Donald Trump has warned of severe consequences if hostages are not released by his inauguration on January 20, potentially shifting the diplomatic approach.