An Israeli delegation in Cairo is pushing to extend the initial phase of the Gaza ceasefire by 42 days, two Egyptian security sources told Reuters on Friday.
Hamas, however, opposes the extension, insisting that the agreement move to its second phase as originally planned, the sources said. This phase is expected to include steps toward a permanent end to the war.
With the first phase set to expire on Saturday, it remains unclear what will happen if no agreement is reached. Egypt and Qatar, with U.S. support, are mediating negotiations.
In a statement on Friday, Hamas called on the international community to pressure Israel into moving forward with the second phase without delay.
Two Israeli government officials told Reuters that Israel’s proposal involves Hamas releasing three hostages each week in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned in Israel.
