The efforts to secure a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas have gained momentum with Qatar rejoining negotiations and President-elect Donald Trump's envoy engaging in diplomatic talks to free the remaining 100 hostages in Gaza.
Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, met with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in late November to kickstart negotiations that had stalled previously.
The discussions aimed at achieving a Gaza cease-fire before Trump's inauguration to pave the way for addressing regional stability post the transition of power.
Despite over a year of cease-fire attempts and efforts to release the hostages, including seven Americans, progress remains uncertain following Witkoff's meetings.
Witkoff, a real estate agent with no prior diplomatic experience, traveled to Israel for talks with Netanyahu, while Israel's Mossad director met with the Qatari prime minister in Vienna to discuss the negotiation requirements.
Qatar's renewed involvement in negotiations signals a return to its pivotal role in brokering a deal between Israel and Hamas after a brief hiatus due to perceived lack of good faith engagement from the parties.
Qatar's prime minister clarified that Hamas' presence in Doha was at the request of the U.S. and Israel to facilitate communication channels for potential hostage releases and aid deliveries.
Trump has emphasized the urgency of releasing the hostages before his inauguration, warning of consequences if the deadline is not met.
Qatar acknowledges the need for maximum pressure on all parties to achieve a cease-fire and is actively working towards resolving the crisis in Gaza before Trump assumes office.
