The United States has expressed hope to reactivate negotiations in Gaza and halt the fighting in Lebanon following the death of Sinwar, the Hamas leader. In this context, Ronen Bar, head of the Israeli Shin Bet, met with Egyptian authorities in an attempt to advance the talks. Egypt, for its part, opposes the Israeli presence at the border between Gaza and Egypt, a key point of disagreement that has led to a stalemate since August.
Hamas has stated that its demands have not changed despite Sinwar's death, while Israeli bombings have impacted Lebanon, forcing more than a million people to flee their homes. The United States seeks to reactivate diplomatic efforts, but the conflicting parties maintain their positions.
Meanwhile, Israel has carried out attacks against branches of Al-Qard Al-Hassan in Lebanon, alleging that they were being used to finance attacks. According to Avichay Adraee, the Israeli army spokesman in Arabic, these locations held funds that financed the purchase of weapons and payments to Hezbollah fighters. The financial entity transferred its assets to safe areas after the bombings.
In Gaza, the situation is dire following the Israeli offensive that has left 90% of its inhabitants displaced. While Israel remains committed to destroying Hamas, the armed group demands the release of prisoners and a ceasefire to free the hostages. On the other hand, the Israeli Army apologized for an attack that killed three Lebanese Army soldiers.
UN resolution 1701, which previously ended the war between Israel and Hezbollah, is considered insufficient to maintain peace. Amos Hochstein, the U.S. envoy, mentions the need for a new mechanism to ensure it. Ultimately, the region remains mired in conflict as attempts are made to reactivate talks to find peaceful solutions.
