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Secretary of State Marco Rubio declared on the weekend that the war in Gaza remains unresolved, although Israeli and Hamas officials accepting aspects of a proposed ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the long-running war.

Technical Talks to Show Hamas's Seriousness

"We will see very quickly whether Hamas is committed or not by the outcome of operational negotiations concerning the captives' return," he told in a television appearance.

His statements were made alongside warnings that the group could encounter "total destruction" if it seeks to hold in authority in Gaza. Israeli and Hamas negotiators will engage in talks in Cairo on Monday, but mediators are facing roadblocks, like the process of prisoner exchanges that could delay hopes for a rapid cessation of hostilities.

Two-Phase Approach to Resolution Framework

In a separate interview, Rubio explained that external discussions are "the most progress made to achieving complete hostage liberation".

Yet he noted that the proposed agreement – accepted by both parties with multiple obstacles, such as the demilitarization of the group – was probably facing "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

Rubio said he "advises both sides" to view the process in two parts – the first where militants consent to the captive return plan, hostages are released and Israeli forces withdraw.

Logistical Challenges and Schedule Pressures

However, the practicalities are not definite, like the transfer mechanism and handover arrangements. "We hope to witness that happen very quickly," he commented. "This element must occur extremely quickly."

"I remain optimistic that their liberation will occur. And I believe there are possibilities," he added.

According to the framework, the group would free the remaining 48 hostages – about 20 of them presumed surviving – within three days. Conversely, Israeli forces would stop its assault and withdraw from large portions of Gaza, release hundreds of detainees and permit delivery of assistance and future rebuilding.

Organization's Viewpoint

"The group is eager to reach an agreement to cease hostilities and immediately begin the captive transfer in accordance with the situation on the ground," officials reported.

Yet they noted that "the military cannot block the application of the peace plan. If the occupation has sincere motives to secure a deal, the group is prepared."

Second Phase Challenges

During his remarks on the weekend, Rubio said the second phase of the agreement includes talks about developments post withdrawal occurs and the establishment of new administration for the territory would be formed.

"That's the part that I believe is will prove slightly harder to resolve, but that will ensure durability for the resolution of fighting," he told.

Additionally, he noted that "everyone has agreed, with Israeli consent, that in time, sooner or later as this process plays out, the region will be led by a Palestinian technocratic group separate from the militant group, non-terrorist entities, with the help and assistance of an multinational group like the board of peace."