The head of Hamas’s political wing, Ismail Haniyeh, has arrived in Cairo to engage in discussions about the ongoing conflict in Gaza, raising hopes for a potential ceasefire agreement between the Palestinian group and Israel. Haniyeh’s visit to the Egyptian capital involves meetings with Cairo’s intelligence chief and other officials who are acting as crucial mediators in the conflict. On the other side, Israeli officials have indicated a willingness to consider a truce deal, as revealed in talks with representatives from the US and Qatar.
The primary focus of Haniyeh’s discussions in Cairo is centered on halting the aggression in Gaza, as stated by a Hamas source. The international community is urging both Israel and Hamas to reach an agreement to stop the bombardment in Gaza, which, after enduring 10 weeks of intense Israeli attacks, has resulted in a devastating toll, claiming nearly 20,000 lives, including 7,729 children. Additionally, 1.9 million people have been displaced and are in dire need of essentials like water, food, and medicine.
A previous truce between November 24 and December 1 allowed international agencies to deliver essential aid, and it facilitated prisoner exchanges between Israel and Hamas. However, the conflict escalated afterward, leading to renewed efforts, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, aimed at establishing another ceasefire and negotiating the release of captives held by both sides.
As discussions unfold in Cairo, there are indications of a potential agreement for the release of Palestinian prisoners. The mounting pressure on Israel to secure the release of 129 captives held by Hamas has resulted in intensive diplomatic efforts, including high-level meetings involving Israeli and Qatari officials.
However, significant obstacles remain as Israel’s government faces internal pressure to continue military operations until achieving “full victory” over Hamas, while Hamas insists on a cessation of Israeli attacks before engaging in any further negotiations. Despite these differing stances, there are ongoing efforts by all parties to reach an agreement in the coming days.