United States announced progress in the latest Gaza truce negotiations, despite disagreements over Israeli troops on the Egyptian border. CIA Director William Burns and other top US officials, along with Israeli intelligence heads, participated in the Cairo discussions. Preliminary talks that began on Thursday were described as constructive by John Kirby of the National Security Council, countering reports of diplomatic collapse.
Upcoming Negotiations
An Egyptian source revealed that Sunday will mark an expanded round of negotiations. The US is working on new proposals to address gaps between Israel and Hamas and to implement the plan effectively. President Joe Biden discussed the talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani.
Hamas and Israeli Stance
Hamas representatives did not attend the Cairo talks. A Hamas official criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for insisting on maintaining troops along the Gaza-Egypt border, known as the Philadelphi Corridor. This issue is seen as a major obstacle to reaching a final agreement.
Ongoing Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
Despite diplomatic efforts, fighting continues in Gaza. Recent violence resulted in significant casualties, including an overnight strike on a house in Khan Yunis that killed 11 people. The UN reports widespread displacement and dire conditions for civilians in Gaza. The death toll since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel includes over 40,000 Palestinians, according to local sources.
International Reactions and Political Pressures
US Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have emphasized the urgency of securing a ceasefire and hostage deal. However, Netanyahu’s coalition, which includes members opposed to a truce, complicates the process. Netanyahu’s office denied media reports suggesting an agreement to withdraw Israeli forces from the Philadelphi Corridor, a key point of contention.
Regional Tensions
The conflict has also sparked violence in Lebanon and Syria, with Hezbollah and Israeli forces engaging in cross-border fire. Recent Israeli strikes in southern Lebanon and central Syria resulted in additional casualties, including Iranian-backed fighters.
The international community continues to push for a resolution to the Gaza conflict, with diplomatic efforts intensifying amid ongoing hostilities and humanitarian concerns.
