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The US secretary of state stated on Sunday that the conflict in Gaza has not ended, although Israeli and Hamas officials accepting aspects of a suggested ceasefire agreement to end the nearly two-year war.

Logistical Discussions to Show Hamas Intentions

"It will become clear soon whether Hamas is serious or not by how these technical talks proceed about the release of hostages," Rubio commented during an interview.

These comments came as statements that Hamas faces "total destruction" if it insists on staying in control in the region. Israeli and Hamas negotiators will engage in talks in Cairo on the coming week, but facilitators are dealing with hurdles, including the exchange mechanisms that might postpone chances for a quick truce.

Two-Phase Approach to Ceasefire Agreement

In a separate interview, he detailed that mediated talks are "the most progress made to getting all hostages released".

But he warned that the resolution framework – which both sides have agreed to with various challenges, such as the weapons surrender – was likely subject to "many complications along the way."

The secretary explained he "urges all parties" to think about the process in two parts – initially militants consent to the captive return plan, hostages are released and troops retreat.

Practical Difficulties and Timeline Concerns

Yet the operational details are uncertain, including the process of exchange and receiving parties. "We hope to witness that happen very quickly," he commented. "This element must occur extremely quickly."

"I am hopeful that their liberation will occur. And in my view opportunities exist," he continued.

According to the framework, militants would let go the last captives – about 20 of them presumed surviving – in a 72-hour period. Conversely, Israel would halt its assault and withdraw from significant areas, let go multiple Palestinian prisoners and permit delivery of assistance and future rebuilding.

Organization's Viewpoint

"Hamas is very keen to secure a deal to stop the conflict and quickly initiate the swap procedures in accordance with the current circumstances," an informed source stated over the weekend.

But they warned that "Israeli forces should not hinder the execution of the ceasefire agreement. If the occupation has genuine intentions to secure a deal, Hamas is ready."

Future Difficulties

While speaking on the weekend, the secretary explained the subsequent part of the agreement includes negotiations concerning what happens after troops retreat and the establishment of new administration for Gaza would be created.

"This aspect that I think is will prove slightly harder to address, but that will ensure permanency to the cessation of hostilities," he told.

Furthermore, he revealed that "everyone has agreed, with Israeli agreement, that ultimately, at some point throughout these proceedings, Gaza will be governed by a Palestinian technocratic group that's not Hamas, without terrorist affiliations, supported and aided of an global coalition like the board of peace."