Israeli delegation heads to Cairo for negotiations on hostage deal, report

  

A Hamas delegation led by Ismail Haniyeh was also reported to be in Egypt's capital, where officials say at least 10 days of discussions are required before any cease-fire can come into effect as the first part of the arrangement.

 

An Israeli delegation traveled to Cairo on Thursday for further negotiations a possible deal to release Israeli hostages held by Hamas in exchange for an extended truce and the release of Palestinians terrorists from Israeli jails, the Hezbollah-affiliated Al Akhbar newspaper reported. Ismail Haniyeh is expected to also arrive in Egypt at the head of a Hamas delegation.

 

According to Egyptian sources referenced in the story, a Qatari delegation was scheduled to arrive in Cairo later in the day to begin detailed conversations aimed at bridging the gap between Hamas' demands and Israel's position. They also stated that Qatar intends to finalize a new draft agreement soon.

 

Hamas had demanded an end to the fighting and the evacuation of Israeli troops from Gaza before the prisoners could be released. According to the article, Egypt sees logic in Hamas' demands and anticipates that American Secretary of State Antony Blinken will return to Cairo following his visit to Israel if negotiations continue.

 

According to Egyptian sources referenced in the story, a Qatari delegation was scheduled to arrive in Cairo later in the day to begin detailed conversations aimed at bridging the gap between Hamas' demands and Israel's position. They also stated that Qatar intends to finalize a new draft agreement soon.

 

Hamas had demanded an end to the fighting and the evacuation of Israeli troops from Gaza before the prisoners could be released. According to the article, Egypt sees logic in Hamas' demands and anticipates that American Secretary of State Antony Blinken will return to Cairo following his visit to Israel if negotiations continue.