Reported by Kokcha News Agency:
A Hamas delegation is expected to meet with Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Cairo to discuss a U.S.-backed ceasefire and hostage exchange proposal, according to an Egyptian official who spoke to The Associated Press (AP). The official, who requested anonymity, stated that the talks will focus on the proposed deal aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Hamas has expressed openness to a ceasefire, reiterating its support for any agreement that would bring an end to the war in Gaza. Hamas official Tahir El Nunu stated that the group is “ready and serious” about reaching a deal.
Israeli Far-Right Ministers Attempt to Block Ceasefire
Meanwhile, reports in the Israeli media suggest that far-right ministers are actively working to disrupt any potential ceasefire agreement. According to Haaretz, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich have been in contact to discuss ways to “derail” a possible ceasefire and hostage exchange deal.
In response to these reports, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar took to social media platform X to emphasize the widespread support for a deal to release the hostages. “There is a large majority in the government and among the public in favor of a plan to free the hostages. If there is an opportunity to do so, it should not be missed,” Saar wrote.
Hostage’s Mother Slams Far-Right Ministers
Einav Zangauker, the mother of Matan, a hostage held in Gaza, also criticized Ben-Gvir and Smotrich on X, calling them “despicable” for their attempts to block the release of the hostages. Zangauker revealed that she recently met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who assured her that he would not need the support of the far-right ministers if they opposed the deal.
“There is a whole nation that wants the hostages to return home; do not align with extremists,” Zangauker said.
Continued Israeli Attacks on Gaza
Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s announcement that Israel has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire, Israeli attacks on Gaza have continued unabated. On Thursday, Israeli airstrikes killed at least 39 Palestinians, including 15 who were waiting for humanitarian aid.
In Khan Younis, in southern Gaza, Israeli strikes targeted a house in the Mawasi area, killing two Palestinians. Another attack on tents housing displaced Palestinians in Khan Younis resulted in 12 deaths. In central Gaza, Israeli forces targeted Palestinians waiting for humanitarian aid on Salah al-Din Street, killing 10 and injuring more than 50.
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