Hamas Leaves Cairo, Raises Hopes for Gaza Ceasefire – Breaking News Update
Hamas Delegation to Return to Cairo with Response to Ceasefire Proposal
According to reports from Al Qahera News television channel in Egypt, the Hamas delegation has left Cairo and will return with a written response to Egypt’s ceasefire agreement proposal. While specific details of the agreement have not been disclosed, sources have indicated that progress is being made.
Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper stated that Egypt’s ceasefire offer includes the release of 134 Israeli prisoners in three stages, with 33 prisoners to be released initially. Hamas has reportedly requested the release of 50 prisoners for every Israeli soldier held captive and 30 prisoners for every civilian.
In exchange for the prisoner release, Israel has agreed to halt preparations to enter Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip and to implement a year-long ceasefire for the region. Egyptian Foreign Minister Samih Shukri discussed the ceasefire proposal at the International Riyadh Economic Forum in Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for peace in Gaza.
The ceasefire proposal, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, was presented to Hamas on April 26, with the group currently reviewing the terms. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with thousands of deaths, injuries, and displacements due to ongoing Israeli attacks despite UN resolutions.
Despite international pressure, Israeli authorities have not ruled out a land invasion of Rafah, where thousands of Palestinians have sought refuge. As negotiations continue, hopes remain high for a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Gaza.
