An Egyptian delegation is currently in Israel to try and revive stalled negotiations focusing on freeing hostages and implementing a ceasefire in Gaza, according to sources from both countries. The delegation is also open to discussing security coordination regarding a potential Israeli operation in Rafah. Egypt is particularly concerned about the implications of a large-scale Israeli operation in Rafah, where many displaced Palestinians have sought refuge in recent months.
Despite months of negotiations facilitated by Qatar and Egypt, there has been no agreement reached between Hamas and Israel due to disagreements over key demands. However, a senior US administration official has indicated that there may be a possible path towards mediating a deal. The latest draft agreement includes a 6-week ceasefire and the release of some hostages held by Hamas in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.
Hamas has made it clear that a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza are fundamental conditions for any agreement. On the other hand, Israel has maintained that its operation in Gaza will not cease until Hamas is eliminated.
As talks continue, the death toll in Gaza rises, and families of hostages in Israel grow more desperate. Qatar, a key mediator, has questioned the sincerity of both Israel and Hamas in reaching a resolution.
One of the key points of contention in the negotiations is the number of Israeli hostages to be released in the initial phase of the agreement. After initially agreeing to release 40 hostages, including women, sick, and elderly men, Hamas has backtracked, claiming they do not have enough hostages meeting those criteria.
In a joint statement, leaders of 18 countries, including the United States, have called on Hamas to accept the terms of the deal and release the hostages. They believe this would lead to an immediate and sustained ceasefire and enable the delivery of vital humanitarian aid to Gaza.
A senior Hamas official criticized the statement, urging the signatory countries to pressure Israel to accept the agreement. He emphasized that the value of their sons and daughters is no less than that of Israeli hostages.
The negotiations are ongoing, with hopes that a resolution can be reached to prevent further loss of life and suffering in Gaza.