Efforts to secure a ceasefire and negotiate a hostage deal in the Gaza conflict have intensified, with Israel viewing these talks as a crucial opportunity before a planned military operation in the city of Rafah.
Media reports say that the discussions between Egyptian and Israeli officials in Tel Aviv have been described as “very good” and focused. Egypt is reportedly willing to exert pressure on Hamas, the Palestinian operative organization in Gaza, to reach an agreement.
Significant progress has been reported in various aspects of the talks, as stated by the Times of Israel citing late Friday evening reports. The Egyptian television station Al-Qahira News also highlighted considerable advancements in the negotiations.
An unnamed senior Israeli official emphasized Israel’s stance on not allowing Hamas, particularly its Gaza leader Yahya al-Sinwar, to delay a hostage deal and hinder the planned military offensive in Rafah.
Al-Sinwar is believed to be behind an attack in Israel last year, resulting in numerous casualties and abductions. Israeli forces suspect he is hiding in tunnels beneath Rafah.
The Israeli government official conveyed a sense of urgency, stating that this round of negotiations represents the “last chance” before resorting to military action in Rafah.
Israel aims to neutralize remaining Hamas forces in the southern Gaza town, which shares a border with Egypt. Egypt is concerned about potential influxes of Palestinians crossing the border if an assault on Rafah occurs. Over a million civilians have sought refuge in Rafah amid the conflict in other parts of Gaza.
Initial discussions between Egyptian and Israeli representatives focused on a limited agreement with Hamas, potentially involving the release of select female, elderly, and sick hostages.
However, Hamas rejected a US proposal to release 40 such abductees, claiming there are few hostages left who fit these categories. Hamas insists on a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, a demand rejected by the Israeli government.
The situation remains tense as negotiations continue, with both sides striving to find common ground to prevent further escalation of violence and achieve a lasting resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
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