Negotiations between Israel and Hamas for the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire commenced in Cairo on Thursday, avoiding the collapse of the agreement ahead of its expiration on Saturday. Egypt, alongside Israel, Qatar, and the United States, is working to establish the second phase of the ceasefire, which aims to end the ongoing conflict, facilitate the return of hostages, and discuss the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza.
Key issues under negotiation include securing the return of all remaining hostages, including 24 believed to be alive, and ensuring enhanced humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza. However, challenges remain as Israel is reluctant to withdraw from the strategically critical Philadelphi corridor, a move Hamas insists would breach the ceasefire terms.
Hamas has reportedly released the remains of four hostages in exchange for over 600 Palestinian prisoners, marking the last planned swap under the first phase of the ceasefire. These hostages, including Ohad Yahalomi and Shlomo Mantzur, were killed during the conflict.
The ceasefire, brokered by Egypt, the US, and Qatar, has halted 15 months of warfare that began after the Hamas-led attack on Israel in 2023, which left 1,200 dead and many hostages taken. Despite the temporary truce, the long-term future of the ceasefire and hostages remains uncertain, with Israel’s military objectives including the dismantling of Hamas’s governing structure and military capabilities.
