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The US secretary of state remarked on the weekend that the conflict in Gaza remains unresolved, although Israeli and Hamas officials agreeing to aspects of a outlined peace plan aimed at ending the long-running conflict.

Logistical Discussions to Show Militant Group's Commitment

"We will see very quickly whether Hamas is committed or not by how these technical talks proceed regarding the hostage liberation," Rubio commented during an interview.

The remarks came as warnings that the group could encounter "total destruction" if it attempts to remain in control in Gaza. Delegations from both sides are set to begin talks in Cairo on the coming week, but facilitators are encountering obstacles, such as the prisoner swap procedures that might postpone hopes for a rapid cessation of hostilities.

Dual-Stage Process to Peace Plan

Elsewhere, Rubio explained that third-party peace negotiations are "the closest we've come to achieving complete hostage liberation".

However, he cautioned that the resolution framework – endorsed by Israel and Hamas with multiple obstacles, including the weapons surrender – was possibly encountering "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

Rubio said he "would encourage everyone" to view the agreement as having two stages – initially militants consent to the hostage liberation structure, hostages are released and Israel pulls back.

Practical Difficulties and Timeframe Issues

But the logistics are uncertain, like the process of exchange and handover arrangements. "We want to see that happen very quickly," he said. "The hostage piece needs to proceed extremely quickly."

"I am hopeful that they will be freed. And in my view opportunities exist," he continued.

According to the framework, Hamas would release the outstanding prisoners – around 20 individuals presumed surviving – in a 72-hour period. Conversely, Israel would halt its assault and pull out of large portions of Gaza, release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and allow an influx of relief supplies and subsequent recovery.

Hamas Position

"Militants are enthusiastic to reach an agreement to cease hostilities and immediately begin the swap procedures according to the situation on the ground," officials reported.

However, they cautioned that "the occupation cannot block the implementation of the peace plan. If the occupation has authentic willingness to reach an agreement, the group is prepared."

Second Phase Challenges

During his remarks on the weekend, Rubio said the next stage of the plan will involve negotiations concerning what happens after Israel pulls back and creating different leadership for Gaza would be created.

"This aspect that I think is may become slightly harder to resolve, but that's what's going to provide durability for the end of the conflict," he told.

Additionally, he noted that "all parties concur, with Israeli agreement, that eventually, in due course throughout these proceedings, the region will be led by a expert Palestinian body without Hamas involvement, non-terrorist entities, with the help and assistance of an global coalition such as conflict resolution organizations."