Staff Reporter
The United States has confirmed that “very serious” negotiations are underway to establish a new ceasefire in Gaza and secure the release of additional Israeli hostages.
Despite these efforts, the prospects for a deal remain uncertain as Hamas, the Palestinian group governing Gaza, insists on a complete end to Israel’s offensive before engaging in discussions.
Hamas leader, Ismail Haniyeh visited Egypt for the first time in over a month to hold discussions with Egyptian officials, who are acting as mediators in the peace talks.
According to a source familiar with the negotiations, envoys are engaged in intensive discussions regarding the hostages still held by Palestinian Islamist militants in Gaza. The negotiations also involve identifying which Palestinian prisoners held by Israel could be released in exchange for the hostages.
Islamic Jihad, another Palestinian militant group holding hostages in Gaza, has announced that its leader would be visiting Egypt in the coming days to discuss the potential end to the conflict.
Speaking to a publication, White House spokesperson John Kirby has acknowledged the seriousness of the negotiations,
“These are very serious discussions and negotiations, and we hope that they lead somewhere.” He said.
However, Taher Al-Nono, Hanier’s media adviser said Hamas is not interested in these talks until Israel ceases it’s military campaign in Gaza.
“We cannot talk about negotiations while Israel continues its aggression. Discussing any proposal related to prisoners must occur after the cessation of aggression.”He said
Al-Nono further conveyed that Hamas has communicated its stance on the ongoing aggression to their counterparts in Egypt, emphasizing the urgent need to halt the violence as a top priority.
“We have talked with our brothers in Egypt, outlining our stance on this aggression and the urgent need to stop it as a top priority.” Nono said.
Israel has maintained its position that all remaining women and men among the hostages should be released.
