Hamas expresses readiness to ceasefire agreement ahead of Cairo talks

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Palestinians walk through the destruction from the Israeli offensive in the Jabaliya refugee camp in the Gaza Strip on Thursday, February 29, 2024. Mahmoud Essa/AP

A senior Hamas official has indicated the group’s openness to considering “all ideas and proposals” aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza, as representatives arrived in Cairo for talks on Saturday.

Reports say Hamas has not received any new offer or proposal so far but remains receptive to negotiations that could end hostilities, AFP report

The group emphasized its goals, including the cessation of the war, Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, the return of displaced residents, unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid, and a comprehensive prisoner exchange agreement.

The discussions in Cairo follow a recently brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah, a Hamas ally, facilitated by US-led diplomatic efforts. This truce has renewed focus on achieving a similar resolution in Gaza.

In addition, the United States has announced a new diplomatic initiative in collaboration with Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt, aiming to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and ensure the release of hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel that triggered the conflict.

The outcome of the Cairo talks remains uncertain, but they represent a critical step in addressing the humanitarian and political crisis in the region.

Israel’s destructive attacks in Gaza have killed at least 44,382 Palestinians and wounded 105,142 since October 7, 2023. At least 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the Hamas-led attacks that day, and more than 200 were taken captive.

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