Truce talks make headway but divisions remain between Israel, Hamas

Indirect negotiations in Qatar between Hamas and Israel to reach a Gaza truce and hostage deal have made progress but the two still remain at odds over several issues as talks continue for a second day, sources told The National on Monday. The resumption of talks, mediated by the US, Egypt and Qatar, come before a meeting between US President Donald Trump – who has renewed a push for a ceasefire – and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House. Israel and Hamas appear to be in agreement on the core provisions of the proposed deal, including a 60-day truce, the release of 10 hostages held by Hamas along with the remains of another 18 who died in captivity.