CAIRO/JERUSALEM: Negotiations for a truce in the Gaza conflict are advancing in Cairo, with all parties reaching agreement on fundamental points, according to Egypt’s Al-Qahera News state-affiliated TV channel.
According to the media reports, Israeli officials also express cautious optimism about the latest round of mediated discussions, marking six months into their offensive against Hamas.
Teams from both Israel and Hamas convened in Egypt on Sunday, following the arrival of CIA Director William Burns on Saturday. His involvement came after U.S. pressure for a resolution to release hostages held in Gaza and alleviate the humanitarian crisis.
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz described the Cairo talks as the closest the sides have come to a deal since the November truce, which saw Hamas release numerous hostages. Katz highlighted the critical nature of the negotiations, hinting at the potential return of a significant number of hostages.
Hamas seized 253 individuals during an October 7 incident in southern Israel, leading to the current conflict. Negotiators discuss the release of approximately 40 hostages in the initial stage of a potential agreement.
According to Al-Qahera, Hamas and Qatar delegations have temporarily departed Cairo and are expected to return within two days to finalize terms. Meanwhile, Israeli and U.S. delegations will depart shortly, with ongoing consultations expected over the next 48 hours.
Hamas aims to leverage any agreement to secure an end to the conflict, full Israeli withdrawal, and the return of displaced Gazans. While Israel rejects the first two demands, it has shown willingness to allow some displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s stance against acceding to “extreme” Hamas demands, despite mounting international pressure. However, while expressing cautious optimism about diplomatic progress, Katz emphasized Israel’s readiness to continue the conflict if necessary.
