But ceasefire hopes rise: Hamas to meet mediators in Cairo for peace talks

Hamas representatives were en route to Cairo on Saturday for ceasefire talks, as the United States, Qatar, and Egypt work to broker a deal to prevent a broader regional conflict.

Despite these diplomatic efforts, fighting in Gaza continues, with overnight Israeli strikes killing dozens, according to Gaza health officials. Israel also reported that four soldiers died in central Gaza on Friday.

While U.S. officials are optimistic about progress, Israel and Hamas remain doubtful. In late July, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu toughened Israel’s stance, including demands for a postwar Israeli presence along Gaza’s border with Egypt.

Senior officials, including Israel’s Mossad chief and Qatar’s prime minister, are expected to join the talks in Cairo. The U.S. CIA Director William J. Burns will also participate.

Hamas stated that its delegation would arrive in Cairo to review recent discussions between Israel, Egypt, and the U.S., leaving room for further negotiations.

Tensions across the Middle East have escalated, especially after the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and a senior Hezbollah commander in Beirut.

A key issue in the talks is Netanyahu’s insistence on maintaining Israeli forces along Gaza’s southern border, a point of contention with both Hamas and Egypt, who demand a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza.

Inside Gaza, heavy air, artillery, and drone strikes have caused extensive damage and displacement, with nearly 90% of Gaza’s population moving multiple times within the enclave. Israel has issued multiple evacuation orders, leading to severe overcrowding in designated “safe zones.”

As the war continues, the situation remains dire, with no clear resolution in sight.