High-Stakes Diplomacy: Cease-Fire Talks Amid Ongoing Israel-Hamas Conflict

Officials from Egypt, Israel, the United States, and Qatar are set to convene in Doha to discuss a proposed three-phase cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Amid ongoing protests and critiques, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Congress, vowing continued efforts for 'total victory' despite international calls for a resolution.

Officials from Egypt, Israel, the United States, and Qatar were expected to meet Thursday in Doha to resume talks on a proposed three-phase cease-fire to end the Israel-Hamas conflict and free remaining hostages. However, an Israeli official noted delays, pushing negotiations to next week.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Congress in Washington on Wednesday amid thousands of protesters near the U.S. Capitol. Netanyahu's speech was condemned by Hamas, which accused him of impeding efforts to end the war and release hostages.

Netanyahu hinted at a potential cease-fire after nine months of conflict but insisted on achieving 'total victory' during his Congress address. The Health Ministry in Gaza reported over 39,100 Palestinian deaths due to the war, highlighting the severe impact on civilians.

A group representing Israeli hostages' families reported that six relatives were briefly detained during Netanyahu's Congress speech for wearing yellow shirts demanding a cease-fire deal. They were released hours later.

Meanwhile, the Israeli military announced the recovery of five hostages' bodies from southern Gaza, further emphasizing the urgent need for resolution.

Australia imposed sanctions on seven Israelis and a West Bank-based youth group over alleged settler violence, reinforcing international pressure to address ongoing conflicts and human rights abuses in the region.