Cairo Meetings Aim to Resolve Israeli-Hamas Truce Stalemate

U.S. and Israeli delegations are in Cairo to discuss a truce proposal to end the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. Egyptian and U.S. officials aim to resolve security concerns on the Egypt-Gaza border. Significant obstacles include Israeli troop deployment demands and smuggling route issues.

U.S. and Israeli delegations convened in Cairo on Thursday in a bid to resolve differences over a truce proposal aimed at ending more than 10 months of conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, according to two Egyptian security sources.

Discussions involve Egyptian, U.S., and Qatari officials seeking compromises on border security following an Israeli military withdrawal demanded by Hamas. Recommendations will be presented to Israeli officials later in the day, with a Qatari delegation joining talks on Friday. These nations have mediated efforts for a ceasefire and the release of hostages and prisoners.

Key obstacles include Israel's demands to maintain troops along strategic corridors despite opposition from Egypt and Hamas. Israel claims these areas are used for arms smuggling, a claim Egypt refutes. Despite U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's recent regional visit, negotiations remain stagnant.

(With inputs from agencies.)