Hamas Delegation Plans Ceasefire Talks in Egypt Amid Gaza Crisis

A delegation of Hamas leaders, led by senior official Khalil Al-Hayya, is set to travel to Egypt to resume critical ceasefire negotiations amid the ongoing Israeli military offensive in Gaza. The talks, facilitated by Turkish mediation, aim to end the extensive violence that has resulted in tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction across Gaza. Egypt and Turkey have emphasized the importance of a ceasefire that includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces, the unrestricted entry of humanitarian aid, and the mutual release of prisoners. Despite Israel's military announcements about capturing Gaza City and pressure to end the conflict through force, diplomatic efforts are ongoing, with Egypt and Qatar working on a new ceasefire and hostage deal proposal. U.S. involvement includes special envoy meetings with Qatari officials, though the U.S. reportedly prefers an all-or-nothing approach to the ceasefire. Meanwhile, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich revealed disagreements with Prime Minister Netanyahu regarding settlement plans in Gaza, underscoring internal divisions over the conflict's future and humanitarian aid strategy.