Negotiations over hostages in Gaza continue as Egyptian and Qatari mediators work to broker a deal between Israel and Hamas. Egypt recently proposed a two-day ceasefire, allowing for the release of a small number of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The proposal is viewed as a first step towards a larger ceasefire, though neither Israel nor Hamas has yet formally accepted the terms. Talks, also involving the U.S., remain delicate, with Hamas insisting any truce must involve an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, which Israel opposes as it continues its operations aimed at dismantling Hamas.
The US has expressed optimism for a broader deal that could potentially secure a temporary pause in fighting, allowing more hostages to be freed and critical humanitarian aid to reach civilians in Gaza. Meanwhile, Israel’s security cabinet has been closely reviewing proposals and discussing scenarios, including a potential six-week truce and the exchange of all civilian hostages still in Gaza. However, Israeli officials anticipate military operations may resume afterward if Hamas remains a threat to Israel’s security interests.
These complex negotiations follow escalating casualties on both sides, with Israeli strikes and ground operations continuing to devastate parts of Gaza. Diplomats from the U.S., including CIA Director Bill Burns, are actively involved in discussions aimed at reaching a workable compromise.