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Secretary of State Marco Rubio remarked on Sunday that the conflict in Gaza remains unresolved, despite Israeli and Hamas officials endorsing elements of a proposed peace plan aimed at ending the nearly two-year fighting.

Logistical Discussions to Reveal Hamas Intentions

"It will become clear very quickly whether Hamas is serious or not by the outcome of operational negotiations about the release of hostages," the secretary stated on a news program.

These comments coincided with statements that the group could encounter "total destruction" if it attempts to remain in authority in Gaza. Delegations from both sides will engage in talks in Cairo on the coming week, but mediators are dealing with hurdles, such as the process of prisoner exchanges that may hinder prospects for an immediate ceasefire.

Two-Part Strategy to Resolution Framework

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

However, he cautioned that the proposed agreement – accepted by both parties subject to multiple obstacles, like the disarming of Hamas – was probably facing "numerous difficulties along the way."

Rubio said he "would encourage everyone" to view the plan in two phases – the first where Hamas has accepted to the captive return plan, prisoners are let go and troops retreat.

Practical Difficulties and Schedule Pressures

However, the practicalities are not definite, such as the transfer mechanism and handover arrangements. "We hope to witness that occur rapidly," he stated. "This element must occur very, very fast."

"I do have hope that they will be freed. And I think there are possibilities," he continued.

According to the framework, militants would let go the remaining 48 hostages – around 20 individuals thought to be living – in a 72-hour period. In return, Israeli forces would stop its offensive and retreat from large portions of Gaza, free numerous Palestinian prisoners and allow an influx of assistance and eventual reconstruction.

Hamas Position

"Militants are enthusiastic to conclude an arrangement to cease hostilities and quickly initiate the captive transfer following the situation on the ground," an informed source reported.

Yet they noted that "Israeli forces must not obstruct the implementation of the resolution framework. Should Israeli authorities has authentic willingness to reach an agreement, militants are willing."

Second Phase Challenges

While speaking on Sunday, the secretary explained the next stage of the plan will involve talks about developments post Israel pulls back and creating different leadership for the region would be established.

"That's the part that in my view is may become a little tougher to address, but this will guarantee durability for the resolution of fighting," he stated.

Additionally, he noted that "all parties concur, with Israeli consent, that in time, in due course as this process plays out, the region will be led by a Palestinian technocratic group separate from the militant group, non-terrorist entities, guided and helped of an international consortium similar to peacekeeping bodies."