Israel initiates ceasefire talks with Hamas to pursue disarmament

Israel will begin new ceasefire talks with Hamas this week, focusing on disarming the group in Gaza. The discussions aim to extend the current truce and secure the release of remaining hostages. The initial ceasefire, established in January, followed months of negotiations involving the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt. Israel's government seeks to eliminate Hamas as a governing and military force in the region. Hamas has agreed to release some hostages but has threatened to cancel the deal over alleged Israeli violations. Israel's security cabinet remains committed to its war objectives, emphasizing the need for a non-terrorist leadership in Gaza.