Western governments have expressed reservations about including Hamas, the Islamist faction, in the Gaza peace talks that Turkey has proposed for a broader regional resolution. The reports, cited by Morning With, indicate that while the idea of a peace conference is not publicly opposed, there is clear reluctance within Western capitals to have Hamas at the negotiating table as a key party to the conflict. This stance reflects longstanding international concerns about Hamas’s leadership, its charter, and its history of conflict with Israel, which officials say could complicate consensus and raise questions about the framework and enforcement of any agreement. (Source: Morning With)
According to the broadcast, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan’s plan to convene an International Palestine-Israel Peace Conference would bring together major regional stakeholders and others with influence over the path of the conflict. The aim, as described, is to place the issue on the world agenda in a structured format that could help translate political will into concrete steps, while attempting to balance security guarantees with political concessions. Observers note that such a forum would need clear rules of participation, trust-building measures, and a realistic timeline to maintain momentum without triggering new rounds of escalation. (Source: Morning With)
In related remarks, US Democratic Senator Tim Kaine offered his perspective on reducing violence between Israel and Hamas. He emphasized that releasing the remaining hostages captured at the outset of the current crisis could contribute to de-escalation, paired with parallel humanitarian and diplomatic initiatives. Kaine’s position reflects a broader belief that hostage releases, while not a substitute for a long-term peace agreement, can create space for negotiations and reduce immediate tensions on the ground. (Source: Morning With)
Israel’s leadership has also weighed in on the question of how to proceed with negotiations. Amichai Eliyahu, who holds responsibilities for Jerusalem affairs and heritage, suggested that securing the release of hostages is important but should not be viewed as the sole route to safety for those held. He signaled openness to a multi-track approach that combines diplomatic dialogue with practical steps on the ground, including humanitarian corridors and confidence-building measures that could lower the temperature in sensitive areas. (Source: Morning With)
Historically, Hamas has called for the release of thousands of Palestinian prisoners as a precondition for serious talks. The demand reflects a pattern in which moves on one front—humanitarian or political—are intertwined with broader negotiation leverage. Analysts argue that negotiating within a framework that acknowledges both security concerns and humanitarian needs will be essential if any future talks gain broad legitimacy. (Source: Morning With)
As discussions about the conference progress, officials stress the importance of inclusivity and credible enforcement mechanisms. A successful gathering would likely require participation rules that prevent derailment by preconditions and ensure that all sides can contribute to a shared, enforceable agenda. The aim is to create a path toward durable arrangements that address the core issues of borders, security, refugees, and the status of Jerusalem, while also accommodating the genuine grievances and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. (Source: Morning With)
Observers caution that the participation of non-state actors or factions with complex conflict histories must be handled with care. Confidence-building steps such as ceasefire commitments, monitored humanitarian access, and transparent verification processes could help build trust among participants and communities affected by the fighting. The ultimate goal remains to reduce human suffering, prevent further casualties, and lay the groundwork for a political settlement that can endure beyond cycles of crisis. (Source: Morning With)