Hamas announced on Friday that they are dispatching a delegation to Cairo to engage in discussions concerning a potential ceasefire agreement and the release of hostages in Gaza.
This move comes shortly after the arrival of U.S. CIA Director William Burns in the Egyptian capital, as reported by Egyptian sources.
Egypt, in collaboration with Qatar and the United States, has taken the lead in facilitating negotiations between Israel and Hamas to broker a ceasefire amid the conflict that commenced on October 7th.
According to an Egyptian security source, representatives from Hamas and CIA officials are scheduled to convene with Egyptian mediators on Saturday.
However, it remains uncertain whether the discussions will occur separately or jointly.
Hamas expressed its delegation’s journey to Cairo in a “positive spirit,” stating they are committed to securing an agreement that meets the demands of the Palestinian people, as per their latest proposal for a truce agreement.
While a U.S. official acknowledged some progress in the talks, they noted the need for further information.
The CIA declined to comment on the matter, adhering to its policy of not disclosing the director’s travel plans. Despite months of ceasefire negotiations, no decisive breakthrough has been achieved.
Israel’s objective is to eradicate Hamas, while the latter seeks a permanent ceasefire and a complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.
Egypt has recently intensified efforts to revive negotiations, particularly amidst concerns over a potential Israeli ground operation in Rafah, southern Gaza.
The area hosts over 1 million individuals seeking refuge near the border with Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula.
Egyptian sources reported concessions from both sides, suggesting progress in the negotiations, despite Israel’s warnings of an imminent operation in Rafah.
