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Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on the weekend that the conflict in Gaza remains unresolved, although the two warring sides agreeing to components of a outlined ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the nearly two-year conflict.

Technical Talks to Determine Hamas's Seriousness

"We will see very quickly whether Hamas is committed or not by how these technical talks proceed concerning the release of hostages," Rubio commented in a television appearance.

The remarks came as declarations that Hamas faces "utter elimination" if it insists on staying in power in Gaza. Delegations from both sides are set to begin negotiations on the coming week, but facilitators are encountering obstacles, such as the process of prisoner exchanges that could delay prospects for an immediate ceasefire.

Dual-Stage Process to Peace Plan

During another appearance, Rubio explained that third-party peace negotiations are "the nearest we've been to achieving complete hostage liberation".

Yet he noted that the proposed agreement – which both sides have agreed to subject to several sticking points, like the demilitarization of the group – was probably facing "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

Rubio said he "advises both sides" to think about the agreement as having two stages – the first where the group agrees to the framework for release, prisoners are let go and Israeli forces withdraw.

Operational Hurdles and Timeline Concerns

However, the practicalities are not definite, such as the swap procedure and receiving parties. "We hope to witness that occur rapidly," he stated. "This element needs to proceed very, very fast."

"I do have hope that they will be freed. And I think there's chances," he added.

As outlined in the agreement, Hamas would release the last captives – approximately two dozen presumed surviving – in a 72-hour period. Conversely, Israeli forces would stop its assault and retreat from significant areas, release hundreds of detainees and enable provision of humanitarian aid and eventual reconstruction.

Hamas Position

"The group is eager to reach an agreement to cease hostilities and promptly start the prisoner exchange process in accordance with the situation on the ground," officials said Sunday.

Yet they noted that "the military cannot block the implementation of the peace plan. Should Israeli authorities has authentic willingness to conclude arrangements, militants are willing."

Future Difficulties

During his remarks on the weekend, the secretary explained the second phase of the framework contains negotiations concerning developments post withdrawal occurs and creating different leadership for Gaza would be created.

"That's the part that I think is going to be somewhat more difficult to resolve, but that will ensure a lasting the end of the conflict," he stated.

Furthermore, he revealed that "all parties concur, with Israeli agreement, that ultimately, sooner or later as this process plays out, the territory will be administered by a Palestinian technocratic group without Hamas involvement, that are not terrorists, supported and aided of an global coalition similar to peacekeeping bodies."