Efforts to stabilize the fragile ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas in Gaza have intensified, as concerns about a potential collapse have somewhat subsided.
Egypt and Qatar, alongside the United States, have stepped up their mediation to maintain the truce and facilitate the ongoing prisoner exchange process.
Hamas Delegation in Cairo
On Wednesday, Hamas announced that a delegation led by Khalil Al-Hayya had arrived in Cairo for critical discussions with Egyptian officials. According to Al Arabiya/Al Hadath sources, an expanded meeting of Hamas leaders is scheduled for Thursday to resolve key issues and finalize points on the negotiating table. Mediators hope this meeting will serve as a turning point in maintaining the ceasefire.
Prisoner Exchange on Schedule
Mediators have confirmed that Israeli security officials expressed their commitment to implementing the prisoner exchange agreement as originally planned. The exchange, scheduled for Saturday, involves releasing 33 Israeli prisoners in exchange for approximately 700 Palestinian detainees. Mediators stressed the importance of avoiding provocations on either side to ensure the deal’s completion.
Egyptian Guarantees and Humanitarian Concerns
Egypt has provided assurances to Palestinian factions that it fully rejects displacement and is committed to reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Cairo has also urged Israel to facilitate the entry of aid supplies, including food, tents, and rubble-clearing equipment, and to allow the wounded to exit Gaza for treatment.
Israeli officials, however, have expressed reservations about certain aspects of the agreement, particularly regarding the public displays during the release of Israeli prisoners.
Ceasefire and Negotiation Context
The current ceasefire agreement, which took effect on January 19, was the result of months of mediation by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. The agreement outlines three stages, with the first lasting 42 days and including multiple prisoner exchanges. So far, Israel has received 16 detainees and five Thai nationals, while hundreds of Palestinian prisoners have been released.
Today’s meetings in Cairo could prove decisive in addressing unresolved issues and ensuring the ceasefire remains intact, paving the way for continued efforts toward stability in the region.
