Hamas leaders met with Egyptian security officials Sunday, aiming to negotiate a Gaza ceasefire. Concurrently, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu prepared for related security discussions.
This marked Hamas’s first Cairo visit since the U.S. announced efforts, alongside Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, to mediate a ceasefire and hostage deal. White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressed cautious optimism, citing regional shifts.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar hinted at possible hostage deal progress but reiterated Israel’s conditions: Hamas must relinquish control of Gaza.
Meanwhile, UNRWA halted aid deliveries via Kerem Shalom after looting incidents, deepening Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. The Israeli military denied obstructing aid but criticized UN inefficiency.
Ongoing strikes have killed over 44,400 in Gaza, per local officials. On Sunday, airstrikes left 20 dead, including children. Residents accused Israel of forced displacement, claims denied by the Israeli military, which focuses on eliminating Hamas threats.
