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Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on the weekend that the conflict in Gaza has not ended, even though the two warring sides accepting aspects of a proposed ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the almost two-year fighting.

Logistical Discussions to Show Hamas Intentions

"We will know soon whether Hamas is serious or not by the outcome of operational negotiations regarding the captives' return," the secretary stated during an interview.

These comments came as warnings that the group could encounter "utter elimination" if it insists on staying in power in Gaza. Delegations from both sides will engage in discussions in Egypt on Monday, but mediators are dealing with hurdles, such as the prisoner swap procedures that may hinder chances for a quick truce.

Two-Part Strategy to Resolution Framework

During another appearance, he detailed that third-party peace negotiations are "the closest we've come to getting all hostages released".

But he warned that the resolution framework – which both sides have agreed to with several sticking points, including the disarming of Hamas – was likely subject to "numerous difficulties along the way."

Rubio said he "advises both sides" to view the process in two parts – the first where militants consent to the framework for release, prisoners are let go and Israel pulls back.

Operational Hurdles and Schedule Pressures

However, the practicalities are not definite, like the transfer mechanism and handover arrangements. "We expect that happen very quickly," he said. "The hostage piece needs to proceed very, very fast."

"I remain optimistic that their liberation will occur. And in my view there are possibilities," he added.

Under the proposed plan, militants would let go the last captives – around 20 individuals believed to be alive – over three days. Conversely, Israel would halt its offensive and withdraw from significant areas, let go multiple Palestinian prisoners and permit delivery of humanitarian aid and future rebuilding.

Militant Group's Stance

"The group is eager to secure a deal to stop the conflict and promptly start the captive transfer according to the current circumstances," officials reported.

But they warned that "Israeli forces must not obstruct the application of the resolution framework. Should Israeli authorities has sincere motives to conclude arrangements, the group is prepared."

Subsequent Obstacles

In his comments on the weekend, Rubio said the subsequent part of the plan will involve negotiations concerning what happens after Israel pulls back and creating different leadership for Gaza would be created.

"That component that I think is will prove slightly harder to resolve, but that's what's going to provide permanency to the cessation of hostilities," he told.

Additionally, he noted that "both sides accept, including Israel, that ultimately, at some point throughout these proceedings, Gaza will be governed by a Palestinian technocratic group separate from the militant group, non-terrorist entities, guided and helped of an global coalition such as conflict resolution organizations."