Negotiations aimed at resolving the Gaza conflict have made some headway, particularly concerning the release of hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, outstanding issues related to security arrangements and ceasefire guarantees are still under discussion, according to two Egyptian security sources on Thursday.
The ongoing negotiations, which involve officials from Israel, the US, Egypt, and Qatar, have oscillated between Cairo and Doha throughout the week. The focus is on reaching a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, as well as addressing security measures along the Egypt-Gaza border.
An Israeli delegation was expected to join the talks with Egyptian and US representatives in Cairo on Thursday. The Egyptian sources indicated that the discussions are building on previously agreed points with Hamas. However, Hamas has stated that it has not yet received any updates from the mediators.
The sources confirmed that there had been agreements on preparations for the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and on the withdrawal of Israeli forces from residential areas in southern Gaza during the initial six-week phase of a proposed deal. There was also consensus on a mechanism for the administration of Gaza post-conflict.
Despite this progress, disagreements persist over security arrangements at Gaza’s border crossings and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. Additionally, Hamas’s demand for written guarantees to ensure a lasting ceasefire is still under negotiation, according to the Egyptian sources.
