Negotiations Continued

Everyone’s hoping this round of ceasefire talks will be different.

Officials from Israel, Egypt, the U.S., and Qatar are on day two of negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza; representatives from Hamas did not join but would reportedly be consulted. Sticking points between Israel and Hamas include the timeline for hostage releases and the shaping of the “day after” the war in Gaza. 

Israeli officials have said this is the “last chance” as fears of a wider regional war with Iran grow. Officials from France and the U.K. are in Israel today trying to prevent that escalation.

The talks come as the Hamas-run Gaza Health Ministry announced that the Palestinian death toll in the 10-month-old war has crossed 40,000. Israel says it's killed over 17,000 Hamas operatives and lost 329 Israeli soldiers. 

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CHRISTIAN PERSPECTIVE
War is heavy and ugly and reminds us of the need for redemption through Christ. Jesus came to lighten our burdens and bring us unexplainable peace. Pray that the Middle East would experience the peace that comes through Christ alone. 

“Don’t worry about anything, but in everything, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.”
Philippians 4:6-7 (CSB) (read full passage)