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America's top diplomat stated on the weekend that the war in Gaza remains unresolved, although Israeli and Hamas officials agreeing to components of a suggested resolution framework aimed at ending the nearly two-year fighting.

Technical Talks to Reveal Hamas Intentions

"It will become clear shortly whether the group is genuine or not by the outcome of operational negotiations regarding the captives' return," he told on a news program.

These comments coincided with declarations that Hamas faces "utter elimination" if it attempts to remain in authority in the territory. Delegations from both sides are set to begin discussions in Egypt on Monday, but intermediaries are encountering obstacles, such as the process of prisoner exchanges that might postpone prospects for an immediate ceasefire.

Dual-Stage Process to Peace Plan

During another appearance, Rubio explained that external discussions are "the most progress made to achieving complete hostage liberation".

But he warned that the administration's peace plan – accepted by both parties subject to multiple obstacles, like the disarming of Hamas – was probably facing "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

The secretary explained he "would encourage everyone" to think about the process in two parts – the first where militants consent to the hostage liberation structure, captives are freed and Israel pulls back.

Operational Hurdles and Schedule Pressures

However, the practicalities are not definite, including the swap procedure and who picks them up. "We hope to witness that occur rapidly," he said. "The captive aspect needs to proceed with great speed."

"I do have hope that they will be freed. And in my view there are possibilities," he remarked.

As outlined in the agreement, Hamas would release the remaining 48 hostages – around 20 individuals thought to be living – in a 72-hour period. As compensation, the military would cease its operations and retreat from large portions of Gaza, free numerous Palestinian prisoners and allow an influx of relief supplies and subsequent recovery.

Organization's Viewpoint

"The group is eager to conclude an arrangement to stop the conflict and immediately begin the captive transfer following the situation on the ground," an informed source said Sunday.

Yet they noted that "Israeli forces must not obstruct the implementation of the ceasefire agreement. If the military has authentic willingness to reach an agreement, the group is prepared."

Second Phase Challenges

During his remarks on the weekend, the secretary explained the subsequent part of the framework contains talks about what happens after withdrawal occurs and the establishment of new administration for the region would be established.

"This aspect that I believe is going to be somewhat more difficult to work through, but that will ensure permanency to the resolution of fighting," he explained.

Furthermore, he revealed that "everyone has agreed, including Israel, that eventually, in due course during these developments, the territory will be administered by a Palestinian technocratic group separate from the militant group, non-terrorist entities, supported and aided of an multinational group such as conflict resolution organizations."