Egypt has received encouraging signs from Hamas regarding the latest ceasefire and hostages draft proposed by Israel. The US President, Joe Biden, publicly detailed the proposal last week, indicating a significant development in the ongoing negotiations. A source familiar with the discussions revealed that Hamas is expected to respond to the proposal in the coming days.
The momentum towards a potential ceasefire was further boosted as senior US officials returned to the Middle East this week to support the diplomatic efforts. CIA director Bill Burns and White House Middle East Coordinator Brett McGurk visited Qatar and Egypt, two crucial mediators in the discussions.
While US officials have maintained a cautious approach by refraining from disclosing specific details of the trips due to the sensitivity of the negotiations, there has been a growing international consensus on the urgent need for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The source did not provide specific information on Hamas' response to Egyptian officials. However, Egyptian state-affiliated Al-Qahera News reported that the country has received positive signals from Hamas, indicating a willingness to pursue a ceasefire. The news outlet, owned by a state-affiliated Egyptian media conglomerate, has been instrumental in conveying Egypt's stance on the negotiations.
