Negotiations between Israel and Hamas on the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire began late Thursday, with Egypt facilitating the talks. These discussions are aimed at extending the truce, which is set to expire this weekend.
The focus is on securing additional hostage releases and continued humanitarian assistance to Gaza, especially as Ramadan is set to begin.
Israel, Qatar, and the United States are involved in the negotiations in Cairo, and discussions are centered on ways to enhance humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.
Recently, Hamas handed over the bodies of four Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of more than 600 Palestinian prisoners. However, 59 hostages remain in Gaza, with around 24 believed to be alive.
Phase 2 of the ceasefire is intended to bring about a complete end to the conflict, including the return of all remaining captives and the full withdrawal of Israeli troops.
However, a significant point of contention remains, as Israel insists on maintaining control of the Philadelphi Corridor along the Gaza-Egypt border to prevent weapons smuggling.
Hamas has voiced willingness to extend Phase 1 of the ceasefire but demands more Palestinian prisoners released for each remaining Israeli hostage. U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff is set to visit the region to assist in the truce extension.
The ongoing conflict, which began after the October 7, 2023 massacre by Hamas, has led to significant loss of life, with around 1,200 Israelis killed, many of them civilians, and approximately 250 others abducted.
