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America's top diplomat declared on the weekend that the war in Gaza remains unresolved, despite Israeli and Hamas officials agreeing to components of a suggested peace plan to end the almost two-year war.

Logistical Discussions to Determine Hamas Intentions

"We will know very quickly whether the group is genuine or not by the outcome of operational negotiations regarding the hostage liberation," Rubio commented in a television appearance.

The remarks were made alongside statements that the group could encounter "total destruction" if it attempts to remain in control in the territory. Israeli and Hamas negotiators will engage in discussions in Egypt on the coming week, but facilitators are facing roadblocks, like the exchange mechanisms that may hinder chances for a quick truce.

Two-Part Strategy to Ceasefire Agreement

In a separate interview, he detailed that third-party peace negotiations are "the nearest we've been to securing all captives' freedom".

But he warned that the administration's peace plan – endorsed by Israel and Hamas subject to various challenges, such as the demilitarization of the group – was possibly encountering "many complications along the way."

The secretary explained he "advises both sides" to consider the plan in two phases – initially militants consent to the hostage liberation structure, prisoners are let go and Israel pulls back.

Practical Difficulties and Timeline Concerns

However, the practicalities remain unclear, such as the swap procedure and who picks them up. "We expect that occur rapidly," he commented. "This element has to happen extremely quickly."

"I am hopeful that their liberation will occur. And I believe opportunities exist," he continued.

As outlined in the agreement, the group would free the last captives – approximately two dozen presumed surviving – over three days. Conversely, Israel would halt its offensive and retreat from large portions of Gaza, release hundreds of detainees and enable provision of relief supplies and subsequent recovery.

Organization's Viewpoint

"Hamas is very keen to reach an agreement to end the war and immediately begin the prisoner exchange process in accordance with the situation on the ground," an informed source said Sunday.

But they warned that "the occupation must not obstruct the application of the peace plan. Should Israeli authorities has genuine intentions to conclude arrangements, the group is prepared."

Second Phase Challenges

While speaking on the weekend, the secretary explained the next stage of the agreement includes discussions over the situation following withdrawal occurs and creating different leadership for the region would be established.

"This aspect that I believe is going to be somewhat more difficult to resolve, but that's what's going to provide permanency to the end of the conflict," he told.

Additionally, he noted that "both sides accept, with Israeli consent, that in time, in due course during these developments, the territory will be administered by a Palestinian technocratic group separate from the militant group, non-terrorist entities, supported and aided of an multinational group such as conflict resolution organizations."