CIA Director Bill Burns recently discussed the challenges surrounding the efforts to reach a ceasefire deal, expressing disappointment over Hamas rejecting a proposal during the Cairo talks. Burns described the situation as a significant obstacle, stating, 'It’s a big rock to push up a steep hill right now.' The proposal, jointly presented by the US, Egypt, and Qatar, was characterized by Burns as 'pretty far-reaching.'
However, Hamas's negative response to the proposal, conveyed through Qatar and Egypt, has hindered progress. Burns emphasized that this reaction is preventing innocent civilians in Gaza from receiving the humanitarian assistance they urgently require.
The proposal reportedly included the potential release of around 900 Palestinians detained in Israeli prisons in exchange for 40 Israeli hostages. In contrast, Hamas has indicated to mediators that they are willing to offer only 20 female hostages and elderly, sick, or wounded male hostages for the initial phase of a ceasefire.
Burns shared his poignant experience of meeting with hostage families, acknowledging the emotional toll of the situation. He remarked, 'It breaks your heart because you can see in very human terms what’s at stake here as well.'
In conclusion, Burns affirmed the commitment to continue working diligently towards a resolution, stating, 'So we’ll keep working hard at this.'
