Hamas leaders met Egyptian security officials in Cairo to push for a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict, according to Hamas sources. This marks the first such meeting since the U.S. announced renewed mediation efforts involving Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
U.S. national security advisor Jake Sullivan expressed cautious optimism about a ceasefire and hostage deal, noting a shift in regional dynamics. He highlighted Hamas’s growing isolation as Hezbollah refrains from engagement and Iran focuses on other conflicts.
Hamas maintains that any agreement must include ending the war, while Israel insists the conflict will only cease if Hamas no longer governs Gaza or threatens its citizens. This fundamental disagreement has complicated negotiations.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar suggested some progress on a hostage deal but emphasized that Israel’s conditions remain firm. He noted the coming days would reveal whether an agreement could be reached.
Meanwhile, fighting continues in Gaza. UNRWA halted aid deliveries after armed groups inside Gaza looted food supplies from a truck convoy, compounding the humanitarian crisis.
