Hamas has engaged in discussions in Cairo regarding a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, forming a committee for Gaza’s administration. The Israeli government is dispatching a delegate to negotiate in Doha under U.S. auspices. However, tensions persist as Israel imposes restrictions, and Hamas denies claims of a temporary truce.
Hamas recently convened a delegation in Cairo with Hassan Rashad, the head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service, to discuss the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and the phased exchange of prisoners. A statement released by Hamas confirmed the establishment of a community support committee, comprising independent national figures, to manage the Gaza Strip until broader Palestinian reconciliation occurs and general elections take place at all levels.
Additionally, Hamas expressed appreciation for the outcomes of the recent Arab Summit, particularly concerning the commitment to rebuilding Gaza and affirming the rights of the Palestinian people.
In a related development, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office reported the dispatch of a delegation to Doha aimed at advancing prisoner exchange negotiations. This initiative follows invitations from mediators Egypt and Qatar, supported by the United States.
Reports indicate that Netanyahu’s decision was influenced by a recent assessment session conducted via phone, amid increasing concerns from the Israeli government regarding direct U.S. talks with Hamas occurring without Israeli involvement.
Moreover, U.S. officials revealed that President Donald Trump’s envoy to the region, Steve Witkoff, is expected to arrive in Doha to facilitate discussions between Israel and Hamas, the extent of his direct interactions with Hamas leaders remains uncertain. A senior Israeli official suggested Witkoff aims to consolidate all parties for several days of intensive negotiations.
However, Hamas leader Mahmoud Mardawi refuted claims that the movement is considering a temporary truce in Gaza, underscoring that such assertions are false. Mardawi reiterated Hamas’s resolve to adhere to the previously agreed-upon terms and to progress to the next phase of negotiations.
Contrarily, Israel is reportedly implementing a plan involving a “series of escalating measures” to increase pressure on Hamas, potentially heightening the risk of renewed conflict. This includes the recent restriction on humanitarian aid into Gaza, justified by Israeli officials citing Hamas’s rejection of a ceasefire proposal from U.S. envoy Witkoff. The proposal suggested an extended ceasefire with stipulated prisoner exchanges but did not formally conclude hostilities.
In summary, the ongoing dialogues between Hamas and Egyptian authorities aim to reinforce the ceasefire agreement and facilitate prisoner exchanges. The broader implications of these negotiations extend to discussions involving Israel and U.S. mediators, with fluctuating attitudes toward a truce. The evolving dynamics suggest potential challenges, including Israel’s strategic measures against Hamas, which could impact the fragile situation and sequence of negotiations moving forward.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
