Amid attempts by mediating countries to bring Israel and Hamas closer to a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, both parties have accused each other of hindering progress while the fighting continues.
Following a meeting in Cairo with Hamas representatives and mediators, Hamas emphasized the need for a permanent end to the conflict as a condition for any agreement. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu rejected this condition, stating that complying with Hamas’ demands would be a defeat for Israel. The head of Hamas’ political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, accused Netanyahu of sabotaging truce efforts.
Israel did not send a delegation to Cairo, waiting for a positive development regarding a potential hostage deal before deciding. Talks resumed with mediators on Sunday after a previous round failed to make progress. Israel has threatened a ground attack on Rafah, a city in Gaza, as a means to eliminate Hamas. The United Nations has warned against such an attack without sufficient plans to protect civilians.
The situation remains tense as negotiations continue in Cairo with both parties unwilling to compromise on their terms for a truce. Meanwhile, Israel closed the Kerem Shalom border crossing with Gaza after it was targeted by missiles, allegedly from Hamas, causing casualties among Israeli soldiers.