Delegations from Israel and Qatar are in Cairo to advance Gaza ceasefire negotiations with U.S. representatives. Discussions focus on a second phase to ensure lasting peace and humanitarian aid improvements. Hamas is committed to negotiations concerning the release of Israeli captives. The first ceasefire phase expires on March 1, and humanitarian aid is a key aspect of the talks.
On February 27, 2025, Egypt’s State Information Service (SIS) announced the arrival of delegations from Israel and Qatar in Cairo to continue discussions on establishing a ceasefire agreement for Gaza. The talks include representation from the United States, emphasizing this round of negotiations to ensure compliance with previously settled terms.
Discussions are also focused on improving humanitarian aid delivery to the Gaza Strip to mitigate the ongoing humanitarian crisis. Hamas has expressed its readiness to negotiate the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, underscoring the necessity of negotiations to secure the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza.
Hamas condemned any potential attempts by Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu to disrupt the agreement, warning that such actions would exacerbate the suffering of the captives and their families. The group reiterated its commitment to fulfilling all aspects of the ceasefire deal.
The first phase of the ceasefire, which halted months of conflict that resulted in over 48,000 Palestinian deaths, is set to conclude on March 1. The forthcoming phase aims to establish a lasting cessation of hostilities, ensure a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, and facilitate the release of numerous captives retained by Hamas.
To date, Hamas has released 30 captives taken during initial operations on October 7, 2023, including Israeli civilians and soldiers, as well as foreign nationals from Thailand. It has also returned the remains of eight deceased Israeli captives. However, approximately 60 captives remain with Hamas, about half of whom are believed to be alive.
In summary, delegations from Israel and Qatar are engaged in ongoing negotiations mediated by Egypt and the U.S. aimed at establishing a long-term ceasefire and improving humanitarian conditions in Gaza. As the current phase of the ceasefire nears its end, Hamas stresses the importance of maintaining the agreement and ensuring the release of captives. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains critical, necessitating focused efforts on aid delivery and compliance with ceasefire terms.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com
