Egypt and the U.S. have undertaken intense negotiations to broker a new Gaza ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian militant groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad, although a deal remains uncertain.
Hamas political chief Ismail Haniyeh visited Cairo Wednesday to hold talks with Egyptian mediators seeking a truce. Discussions covered potential prisoner swaps and humanitarian relief to Gaza civilians.
However, a Hamas spokesperson asserted they won’t consider freeing more Israeli hostages until Israel ends its military strikes on Gaza and increases aid. They rejected further temporary pauses, demanding only permanent ceasefire terms.
Islamic Jihad’s leader is also set to visit Egypt soon for ceasefire deliberations. “These are very serious discussions, and we hope they lead somewhere,” the White House said.
But Israel insists that all remaining women and infirm male prisoners be released first. In turn, Palestinians convicted of severe crimes could be freed by Israel.
Over 200 Palestinians have died since violence escalated earlier this month prompted by an Israeli raid in the occupied West Bank. Gaza militants have launched over 1,000 rockets into Israel during the flare-up.
Egypt often plays mediator between Israel and Gaza groups given its ties with both sides. But securing a durable peace remains challenging with either reluctant to budge on key demands.
Intense diplomatic efforts continue seeking an end to recurring bloodshed even as both sides’ uncompromising stances persist. The mediation focus is on initial prisoner releases and aid measures preceding talks on the comprehensive truce.
