Delegations from the Islamist group Hamas and Israel participated in indirect talks in Cairo on a truce in Gaza. However, after a two-day round of negotiations, they left the Egyptian capital without any apparent results, as reported by Egyptian state television Al Qahera News. A security source close to Egypt’s Intelligence mentioned that both parties left after the talks, with some controversial points still unresolved. Despite this, Egypt, Qatar, and the United States are working to bring Israel and Hamas closer on a truce proposal accepted by Hamas on Monday.
Hamas announced its withdrawal from Cairo, attributing it to Israel’s invasion of Rafah and the seizure of the border crossing. The group affirmed its commitment to accepting the mediators’ document while condemning Israeli aggression. Egypt warned of the danger of escalation if an agreement is not reached between Israel and Hamas. Representatives from Islamic Jihad and other Palestinian factions joined the negotiations on Thursday, indicating progress in resolving controversial points.
The truce proposal accepted by Hamas includes three phases, leading to an exchange of hostages, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and sustainable calm in the Strip. The new round of negotiations coincided with Israel’s military operation in Rafah, where significant casualties were reported. Despite challenges, efforts are being made to find consensus and prevent further escalation in the region.