Marco Rubio Asserts Palestinian War Not Yet Over as Israel and Militant Group Prepare for Discussions

The US secretary of state stated on Sunday that the Gaza hostilities remains unresolved, even though the two warring sides endorsing components of a outlined resolution framework designed to conclude the almost two-year conflict.

Technical Talks to Show Hamas Intentions

"We will know shortly whether the group is genuine or not by the outcome of operational negotiations concerning the hostage liberation," Rubio commented on a news program.

The remarks came as warnings that the militants risk "utter elimination" if it insists on staying in power in the territory. Israeli and Hamas negotiators will engage in negotiations on the coming week, but mediators are dealing with hurdles, such as the exchange mechanisms that could delay chances for a quick truce.

Two-Phase Approach to Ceasefire Agreement

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

But he warned that the resolution framework – accepted by both parties subject to several sticking points, like the disarming of Hamas – was likely subject to "many complications along the way."

Rubio said he "advises both sides" to think about the agreement as having two stages – initially militants consent to the hostage liberation structure, captives are freed and Israeli forces withdraw.

Logistical Challenges and Schedule Pressures

However, the practicalities are not definite, such as the process of exchange and handover arrangements. "We hope to witness that happen very quickly," he said. "The hostage piece needs to proceed with great speed."

"I do have hope that they will be freed. And I believe there are possibilities," he continued.

As outlined in the agreement, militants would let go the outstanding prisoners – around 20 individuals presumed surviving – in a 72-hour period. As compensation, Israel would halt its offensive and retreat from large portions of Gaza, let go multiple detainees and allow an influx of relief supplies and eventual reconstruction.

Militant Group's Stance

"Militants are enthusiastic to reach an agreement to end the war and quickly initiate the prisoner exchange process following the field conditions," a Palestinian source reported.

However, they cautioned that "the military should not hinder the execution of the resolution framework. If the military has sincere motives to reach an agreement, the group is prepared."

Future Difficulties

In his comments on Sunday, Rubio said the second phase of the agreement includes talks about the situation following Israel pulls back and creating different leadership for the region would be established.

"That's the part that in my view is going to be slightly harder to address, but that's what's going to provide durability for the resolution of fighting," he stated.

Furthermore, he revealed that "all parties concur, with Israeli consent, that in time, at some point during these developments, the region will be led by a expert Palestinian body without Hamas involvement, without terrorist affiliations, guided and helped of an multinational group such as conflict resolution organizations."