CAIRO: Efforts to broker a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip are set to recommence in Cairo on Sunday, as reported by Egyptian outlet Al-Qahera. The resumption of negotiations follows Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent authorization for fresh talks.
According to Al-Qahera News, an Egyptian security source confirmed the restart of discussions aimed at reaching a truce between Israel and Hamas in Cairo. Mediation efforts involving Egypt, Qatar, and the United States have previously been undertaken, yet a viable agreement has remained elusive.
Initially, mediators aimed to secure a ceasefire before the onset of Ramadan, but progress stalled, and the Muslim holy month is now more than halfway through.
On Friday, Netanyahu sanctioned a new round of ceasefire negotiations to be held in both Doha and Cairo. While details regarding the Israeli delegation remain undisclosed, reports suggest Netanyahu conferred with Mossad chief David Barnea regarding the talks.
Meanwhile, protests erupted in Israel’s largest city, where demonstrators blocked a major thoroughfare, demanding the release of hostages held in Gaza and criticizing the government’s handling of the conflict.
A critical aspect of ceasefire negotiations revolves around an agreement for the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held in Israel.
In Cairo, French Foreign Minister Stephane Sejourne joined discussions with Egyptian and Jordanian counterparts, advocating for an “immediate and permanent ceasefire” in Gaza and the unconditional release of all hostages. France also announced plans to propose a draft resolution at the UN Security Council, outlining a political settlement for the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, encompassing the principles of a two-state solution.
Despite recent diplomatic efforts, the situation on the ground remains unchanged, with ongoing violence resulting in casualties on both sides. The resumption of talks in Cairo signals a renewed push for peace amid the protracted conflict between Israel and Hamas.
