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America's top diplomat remarked on Sunday that the Gaza hostilities continues, although both Israel and Hamas accepting aspects of a suggested peace plan to end the nearly two-year war.

Logistical Discussions to Reveal Militant Group's Commitment

"It will become clear very quickly whether Hamas is committed or not by how these technical talks proceed about the hostage liberation," he told in a television appearance.

These comments were made alongside statements that the militants risk "total destruction" if it insists on staying in authority in the region. Representatives will engage in talks in Cairo on the coming week, but intermediaries are dealing with hurdles, such as the prisoner swap procedures that might postpone prospects for an immediate ceasefire.

Two-Phase Approach to Resolution Framework

Elsewhere, Rubio explained that third-party peace negotiations are "the nearest we've been to securing all captives' freedom".

However, he cautioned that the proposed agreement – accepted by both parties subject to various challenges, such as the demilitarization of the group – was likely subject to "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

He stated he "urges all parties" to view the process in two parts – initially militants consent to the framework for release, prisoners are let go and troops retreat.

Logistical Challenges and Timeline Concerns

But the logistics are uncertain, such as the process of exchange and handover arrangements. "We hope to witness that happen very quickly," he commented. "The hostage piece must occur with great speed."

"I remain optimistic that they will be freed. And in my view there's chances," he added.

As outlined in the agreement, militants would let go the last captives – about 20 of them believed to be alive – in a 72-hour period. As compensation, Israel would halt its operations and pull out of significant areas, free numerous inmates and permit delivery of relief supplies and future rebuilding.

Hamas Position

"Militants are enthusiastic to reach an agreement to cease hostilities and quickly initiate the swap procedures in accordance with the current circumstances," a Palestinian source reported.

But they warned that "the occupation should not hinder the application of the peace plan. Should Israeli authorities has genuine intentions to reach an agreement, militants are willing."

Second Phase Challenges

In his comments on the weekend, Rubio said the second phase of the plan will involve discussions over the situation following troops retreat and creating different leadership for the region would be established.

"That's the part that I believe is will prove a little tougher to work through, but this will guarantee a lasting the resolution of fighting," he stated.

He also mentioned that "everyone has agreed, with Israeli agreement, that eventually, at some point as this process plays out, the region will be led by a professional Palestinian administration without Hamas involvement, that are not terrorists, guided and helped of an global coalition like the board of peace."