President Joe Biden has reiterated his support for the peace process, stating that the U.S. is committed to ensuring the agreement’s success despite the challenges. He emphasized that the resolution of hostage issues is crucial for the deal’s viability, while encouraging both sides to remain engaged in dialogue. The State Department has been actively working to facilitate negotiations, with officials acknowledging that progress has been slow but steady.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has expressed cautious optimism about the next phase of talks. He has insisted that the return of hostages must be handled in a manner that upholds national security and legal integrity. Hamas, on the other hand, has called for a more transparent process and has raised concerns about the current status of the hostages, which they claim are still being held in Israeli detention facilities.
International observers have welcomed the U.S. decision to proceed with phase two, noting that it demonstrates continued support for a diplomatic resolution. However, the situation remains fragile, with both parties facing domestic pressures to take a firm stance on the issue. Analysts warn that any misstep could derail the entire agreement, highlighting the importance of maintaining trust and cooperation between the involved parties.