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Amidst heightened tensions, US envoy Steve Witkoff met with Qatari Prime Minister Abdulrahman al-Thani in Spain to discuss ending the Gaza war and freeing 50 hostages. Mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt aim to prevent Israel's planned takeover of Gaza City. A proposed deal involves a ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal, Hamas demilitarization, and a new Gaza authority. However, an Israeli official expressed skepticism about a comprehensive deal. Secretary of State Marco Rubio blamed the stalled talks partly on France's recognition of a Palestinian state, while Israel's decision to expand the offensive drew international condemnation.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.