The United States and relatives of the captives are urging for mediation efforts to result in an agreement with Hamas regarding a proposed six-week truce in Gaza, which includes the release of around thirty hostages. The Israeli delegation is expected to travel to Cairo to continue negotiations.
Hamas is engaged in discussions with Egypt’s security agencies about the ceasefire proposal in Gaza. Talks between Egypt and Israel have been positive and successful, with concessions made to many of Hamas’s demands.
Israeli authorities have warned Hamas that this is their last chance for a truce before an invasion of Rafah, which could lead to a humanitarian catastrophe. International organizations have warned that an offensive in Rafah could constitute war crimes.
The relatives of the hostages held by Hamas are mobilizing to secure their release, fearing the potential danger they could face in Rafah. Israeli authorities are also concerned about potential arrest warrants from the International Criminal Court. Talks are ongoing while the situation in Gaza remains dire, with significant casualties reported in recent attacks. The UN agency OCHA has described the situation in Rafah as terrible, with challenges in accessing basic services and heightened anxiety over a potential Israeli ground operation.