The most recent ceasefire talks in Cairo, Egypt have concluded, as reported by Hamas, but it is uncertain if a deal is closer to being reached. The terrorist group stated that their discussions with Egyptian and Qatari mediators were detailed and serious.
Israel and Hamas are still at odds over various aspects of a potential agreement, particularly Hamas’s insistence on a permanent ceasefire, a condition that Israeli leaders are unwilling to accept. Both sides are blaming each other for the lack of progress in reaching a deal.
In a statement, Hamas reiterated their commitment to achieving an agreement that satisfies the national demands of their people, ends aggression, involves a complete withdrawal from Gaza, allows for the return of displaced individuals, accelerates relief efforts, initiates reconstruction, and completes a prisoner exchange.
A ceasefire agreement would pave the way for the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza and would enable much-needed humanitarian aid to flow into the region.
Israeli officials have emphasized their intention to conduct significant military operations in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, where a large number of Palestinians have sought refuge during the conflict. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed Israel’s determination to defend itself, while Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned of imminent military actions in Rafah and other parts of Gaza.
The United States has expressed concerns about Israel’s planned operations in Rafah, fearing potential civilian casualties.
Additionally, on Sunday, Hamas carried out a fatal rocket attack near the Kerem Shalom border crossing, a key entry point for humanitarian aid into Gaza. Three soldiers were killed and 11 were injured in the attack, prompting the Israel Defense Forces to temporarily close the crossing. The IDF retaliated by targeting the site where the rockets were launched from.
