Israel and Hamas are Open to Continuing the Ceasefire, But There are Still Obstacles

The Israeli military in the Gaza Strip. (Source: Israel Defense Forces)

JAKARTA - Both Hamas and Israeli militant groups are open to efforts to resume the ceasefire and release of hostages, two Egyptian security sources said on Sunday, although there are still differences of opinion over how that would be implemented.

Egypt and Qatar, which had previously negotiated a week-long ceasefire and the release of hostages, insisted on speeding up aid and the opening of the Kerem Shalom crossing before negotiations began, the sources said.

Meanwhile, an Israeli official said aid had been allowed into Gaza, after Egyptian sources initially said it was being withheld.

Hopes for peace emerged on Saturday, when a source said Israel's spy chief had spoken Friday with Qatar's prime minister.

On the other hand, Hamas insisted on establishing a list of hostages to be released unilaterally, and demanded that Israeli troops withdraw behind predetermined lines, the source told Reuters, as quoted on December 18.

Although Israel agreed with Hamas to set the list, the sources said, Israel asked for a time limit and to see the list before setting a time and duration for the ceasefire.

Israel refused to withdraw, the source added.

"It is important for me to be clear, the IDF (Israel Defense Forces) is determined to complete the task of eliminating Hamas," said Israeli military spokesman Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari in a press conference Sunday.

Hamas said a complete ceasefire was a prerequisite for the release of the hostages, the source said.

"We are open to any efforts aimed at ending Israeli aggression. This is the basis for any discussion," said Hamas official Sami Abu Zuhri when asked for comment by Reuters regarding Israel and Hamas' openness to talks according to the Egyptian side.

Separately, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.