An Egyptian delegation aiming to revive talks to end the Gaza conflict and secure the release of Israeli hostages met with counterparts from Israel on Friday.
While Israel didn’t present new proposals, it expressed openness to a limited truce releasing 33 hostages instead of the initial 40.
The talks follow appeals by the U.S. and 17 other countries to Hamas for the release of all hostages to resolve the Gaza crisis.
Israeli officials indicated that any truce would last less than six weeks, emphasizing the urgency of the situation.
Despite the absence of ongoing hostage negotiations between Israel and Hamas, Egypt’s initiative aims to reinvigorate the dialogue, focusing on freeing hostages—primarily women, the elderly, and the infirm—held in Gaza.
Reports suggest that out of the 133 hostages, approximately 33 are elderly, sick, or female. Amid escalating tensions, international pressure mounts for a lasting ceasefire in Gaza.
Hamas remains open to proposals accommodating the needs of Palestinians while criticizing the lack of calls for a permanent ceasefire and Israeli withdrawal.
The Egyptian involvement underscores growing concerns over a potential Israeli offensive in Rafah, triggering significant refugee flows from Gaza. Egypt’s proactive role in negotiations reflects the region’s desire for swift progress in resolving the crisis.
While Qatar remains involved in mediation efforts, Israel’s focus shifts amid dissatisfaction with Qatar’s inability to address key demands.
However, Hamas still considers Qatar an essential mediator, alongside Egypt, indicating continued diplomatic engagement in the region.
As efforts persist to broker a truce and secure the release of hostages, stakeholders face complex political dynamics to find a lasting solution to the Gaza conflict.
