Israel-Hamas war live updates: IDF launches overnight raid on Gaza's Al-Shifa hospital
NBCMar 23
Gaza Cease-Fire Talks Resume in Doha
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The Facts
Talks between Israel and Hamas regarding a possible deal to exchange at least 40 Israeli hostages for a potential six-week cease-fire in Gaza, as well as the return of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, resumed on Tuesday.
Qatar's foreign ministry said that the principal negotiators had discussed the "main issues," but it was too early to say that a deal was near. Though Mossad chief David Barnea, who headed Israel's delegation in Qatar, has returned home, "technical teams" are reportedly holding discussions.
The Spin
Pro-Palestine narrative
Israel is purposefully creating a famine in Gaza at a rate unprecedented in the post-WWII era. Israeli forces have been blocking food, water, and other necessities from entering Gaza since the war began and have intensified efforts to facilitate a horrific and dehumanizing situation for Palestinians, forcing people to drink contaminated water and eat whatever they can find, including grass and moldy potatoes. This level of cruelty is simply unfathomable, and Israel must be held accountable for its crimes.
Pro-establishment narrative
Israel must be able to defend itself from terrorist attacks from Gaza or elsewhere, and the US is committed to preventing malicious actors from threatening Israel's legitimate concerns. However, the Biden administration is losing its patience with Netanyahu's intransigence. The humanitarian situation in Gaza, which is rapidly getting out of hand, must be remedied. The US is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of Palestinian civilians and is taking steps to alleviate this dreadful situation.
Pro-Israel narrative
Israel will always be thankful for the US' steadfast support, but the Biden administration must refrain from tying Israel's hands behind its back. Hamas is simply not interested in negotiating in good faith and has consistently shown its preference for violence. In contrast, Israel has done everything it can to ensure the safety of civilians in the unsolicited war, even going so far as to put its own soldiers at risk just to preserve this principle. Israel will pursue its goals, regardless of whether it annoys Washington or anyone else.
