Israeli Delegation Lands in Cairo to Advance Cease-Fire Talks

An Israeli delegation has arrived in Egypt to advance cease-fire negotiations with Hamas, according to three Egyptian airport officials.

International mediators are urging Israel and Hamas to agree on a phased deal to stop the fighting and secure the release of approximately 120 hostages held by the militant group in Gaza.

The delegation from Israel includes six officials, whose identities were not disclosed. The airport officials requested anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the media.

Over the weekend, the talks faced a setback when Israel targeted Hamas’ military commander in a major strike. His current status is unknown, but Hamas has confirmed that negotiations are ongoing.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant informed U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin that the intense pressure on Hamas had created conditions conducive to reaching an agreement for the hostages’ return. Further details were not provided in the statement from his office.