Gaza Ceasefire Talks Make Progress Amid Intense Israel-Hezbollah Conflict

Negotiators continue to work towards a Gaza ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages amidst the Israel-Hezbollah firefight. Progress was made over the weekend, but challenges remain. Hamas demands permanent ceasefire and Israel's total withdrawal from Gaza.

Amid a weekend of intense firefighting between Israel and the Iran-backed group Hezbollah, negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and the release of Israeli hostages have continued, according to the White House. Talks in Cairo reportedly made headway, as mediators focused on final details, including the exchange of prisoners.

Though no final agreement is yet in sight, discussions have become more detailed, a senior US official said. The White House National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby confirmed that all parties, including Hamas, were involved in the talks, which have advanced on specifics.

However, Hamas political bureau member Bassem Naim stated the group did not participate in Monday's negotiations. He asserted that while Hamas is ready to negotiate on previously agreed terms, it rejects additional conditions imposed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Hamas launched a massive attack on Israel on October 7 last year, causing 1,200 deaths and capturing over 250 hostages, more than 100 of whom remain in captivity. Israel's retaliatory offensive has been criticized for causing civilian casualties, with over 40,000 Palestinians reported dead.

Netanyahu has maintained that hostilities in Gaza will persist until a 'total victory' over Hamas is achieved, a stance questioned by several Israeli officials and the families of captives. Despite significant sticking points, negotiators believe they can be addressed, CNN reported, citing an official.

A key issue remains the Israeli military's presence in the Philadelphi corridor between Gaza and Egypt. Hamas opposes Israel's plans to station troops there during the initial phase of any ceasefire. US officials propose an Israeli military withdrawal from densely populated Gaza areas, but the debate continues over specific regions within the Philadelphi corridor.

The Hamas delegation left Cairo on Sunday, reiterating their demand for a permanent ceasefire, complete Israeli withdrawal, residents' return, relief, and reconstruction. Despite public demands, US negotiators believe Hamas might be more flexible regarding Israeli presence during the initial agreement phase.

(With inputs from agencies.)