By Ezekiel David
Hopes for a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas rest on delicate negotiations taking place in Cairo, as US and Israeli delegations convene to address key sticking points.
Egyptian officials are working to bridge differences over security arrangements along the Gaza border following a potential Israeli withdrawal.
The future of the Philadelphi Corridor, which serves as a buffer zone between Egypt and Gaza, is a central topic of dispute. Israel claims that Hamas exploits the region for transporting weapons, which is why it insists on keeping troops there.
Both Egypt and Hamas demand a complete Israeli withdrawal from the corridor, with Egypt asserting its control over smuggling routes.
Adding to the urgency, Israeli tanks advanced further into Gaza on Thursday, casting a shadow over the talks. This development follows a call between US President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, during which the Biden stressed the pressing need for a truce.
A group from Qatar will also be present in the Cairo talks, which come after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent, fruitless trip to the region.
The conflict, ignited by a Hamas incursion into Israel on October 7th, has resulted in a devastating loss of life. Israeli authorities report approximately 1,200 fatalities and 250 hostages taken, while Palestinian health authorities estimate over 40,000 casualties in Gaza.
(Source: Reuters)