Crucial Gaza Ceasefire Talks Kick Off in Cairo Amid Continued Israeli Strikes
Crucial Gaza Ceasefire Talks Kick Off in Cairo Amid Continued Israeli Strikes
Crucial negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages commenced today in Cairo, as Israel continued its bombardment of the Palestinian territory, reportedly killing 63 people in the last 24 hours.
The talks, expected to last a few days, are centered on the first phase of former President Donald Trump’s peace plan. This phase specifically addresses the release of the remaining 48 hostages held by Hamas in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israel.
Key figures participating in the discussions include US envoy Steve Witkoff, Israeli negotiators, and a Palestinian delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya, deputy head of Hamas’s political bureau. The Egyptian foreign ministry confirmed the focus on Trump’s proposal, which has generated optimism for a potential breakthrough.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking yesterday, described the Cairo talks as “the closest we’ve come to getting all the hostages released,” though he cautioned about potential logistical hurdles. Despite growing international pressure and expressions of support for the Trump plan from leaders like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Israeli forces have maintained their offensive operations in Gaza.
The broader Trump plan envisions Hamas releasing all hostages within 72 hours, surrendering governance to a transnational authority, and disarming. In return, Israel would gradually withdraw troops and release over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, paving the way for a surge of humanitarian aid and reconstruction funds for Gaza.
While optimism for a ceasefire is palpable, the ongoing strikes underscore the fragility of the situation. An Israeli government spokesperson confirmed that “there’s no ceasefire in place at this point in time,” even as both Israeli and Hamas officials have expressed a desire to reach an agreement.
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