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America's top diplomat declared on Sunday that the war in Gaza remains unresolved, despite both Israel and Hamas accepting elements of a suggested peace plan designed to conclude the nearly two-year conflict.

Logistical Discussions to Show Hamas's Seriousness

"It will become clear soon whether Hamas is serious or not by how these technical talks proceed regarding the release of hostages," he told on a news program.

The remarks coincided with warnings that the group could encounter "complete obliteration" if it insists on staying in control in the region. Representatives are set to begin discussions in Egypt on the coming week, but intermediaries are dealing with hurdles, such as the exchange mechanisms that may hinder chances for a quick truce.

Two-Phase Approach to Peace Plan

During another appearance, the secretary outlined that external discussions are "the most progress made to getting all hostages released".

Yet he noted that the administration's peace plan – accepted by both parties including various challenges, such as the weapons surrender – was probably facing "a lot of pitfalls along the way."

The secretary explained he "advises both sides" to view the process in two parts – one in which Hamas has accepted to the captive return plan, captives are freed and troops retreat.

Practical Difficulties and Schedule Pressures

But the logistics are uncertain, including the process of exchange and who picks them up. "We hope to witness that occur rapidly," he commented. "This element has to happen extremely quickly."

"I remain optimistic that their liberation will occur. And I believe there are possibilities," he continued.

Under the proposed plan, militants would let go the remaining 48 hostages – around 20 individuals believed to be alive – over three days. Conversely, Israel would halt its offensive and withdraw from significant areas, free numerous Palestinian prisoners and permit delivery of assistance and future rebuilding.

Hamas Position

"Militants are enthusiastic to reach an agreement to cease hostilities and promptly start the swap procedures according to the situation on the ground," a Palestinian source reported.

But they warned that "the occupation cannot block the application of the ceasefire agreement. Should Israeli authorities has authentic willingness to conclude arrangements, militants are willing."

Subsequent Obstacles

In his comments on the weekend, he detailed the subsequent part of the framework contains talks about what happens after troops retreat and creating different leadership for the region would be established.

"That's the part that I believe is may become slightly harder to resolve, but that will ensure durability for the cessation of hostilities," he explained.

Additionally, he noted that "all parties concur, with Israeli agreement, that in time, at some point as this process plays out, the territory will be administered by a Palestinian technocratic group that's not Hamas, that are not terrorists, supported and aided of an multinational group such as conflict resolution organizations."