Mediators try to bridge gaps in ceasefire talks

Qatar has said mediators are trying to bridge the gaps on “contentious” issues to secure an agreement between Hamas and Israel for a ceasefire. “We are working round the clock as mediators, in close co-ordination with our partners in Egypt and the US,” said Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Majed Al Ansari. “We are exploring innovative ideas to bridge the gaps on many of the contentious and sensitive issues under discussion, aiming to reach an agreement in principle that will pave the way for the upcoming proximity talks,” he added.