(Jerusalem) The Israeli delegation responsible for negotiations in Cairo on a possible truce with Hamas in Gaza has returned to Israel, Israeli media reported on Wednesday.
Egypt, a traditional mediator in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, particularly in Gaza, hosted on Tuesday the directors of American and Israeli intelligence as well as the head of the Qatari government for talks on a truce including a new release of hostages.
Several Israeli media, including Jerusalem Post and the Times of Israel, reported Tuesday evening the return of the Israeli delegation, without further indication. The Israeli delegation is “on its way back from Cairo”, according to an official from the prime minister’s office, quoted by Times of Israel.
Discussions between CIA Director William Burns, Mossad Chief David Barnea, Qatar Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani and Egyptian officials have been “positive” and will continue for “the next three years.” coming days,” AlQahera News television, close to Egyptian intelligence, had previously announced, citing “a senior Egyptian official.”
“Negotiations will continue for the next three days,” the official declared at the end of this meeting.
For its part, Hamas is “open to the idea of discussing any initiative to put an end to the aggression and the war,” one of its executives assured AFP on condition of anonymity.
“Hamas and other Palestinian movements are awaiting the results of the Cairo talks,” he added.
According to Israel, 130 hostages are still in Gaza, 29 of whom are believed to have died, out of around 250 people kidnapped on October 7. A week-long truce in November allowed the release of 105 hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinians detained by Israel.