Egyptian Delegation Pushes for Progress in Stalled Gaza Negotiations as Hamas, Israel Deadlock Remains

The Egyptian delegation currently in Israel is attempting to make progress towards resolving negotiations that have been stalled, as Hamas and Israel continue to fail to reach an agreement due to differences over key demands. The discussions are centred on the release of hostages, security coordination for a potential Israeli operation in Rafah, ceasefires and implementing plans around sheltering displaced Palestinians returning from southern Gaza. There have been indications that progress may be made, although there remain several sticking points including Hamas’ insistence on unrestricted returns of refugees to the north as well as their belief they cannot reach a deal without an assurance over future ceasefires and full withdrawals by Israel troops in the Gaza region. Both countries continue talks which are being mediated by Qatar, although there have been questions raised about whether both parties are serious enough regarding reaching any agreement. The death toll continues to rise as hostage families grow increasingly desperate for their loved ones’ safe return home and international leaders from 18 nations called on Hamas this week to accept the terms of a deal which would facilitate further humanitarian assistance, ceasefire implementation and end ongoing conflicts in Gaza once and for all. As aid trickles into war-torn regions such as Gaza at an increasingly slow rate due to difficulties presented by Israel’s blockade on supplies entering these areas, frustration is growing among Palestinians whose desperation intensifies amid what are called the least responses imaginable against catastrophes caused both by Israeli offensives and sieges.