Gaza ceasefire talks on despite Israeli PM's stance to attack Rafah

New Delhi, May 04: Intensive negotiations are ongoing to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, with talks resuming in Cairo over the weekend.

Representatives from Hamas expressed optimism, stating their delegation approached the discussions positively after reviewing the latest truce proposal.

The goal is to reach an agreement addressing Palestinian demands.

Negotiators have returned to Cairo, aiming to halt Israel's offensive in Gaza temporarily in exchange for the release of hostages.

Challenges persist as both sides seek to solidify the terms, particularly regarding the permanence of the ceasefire. Discussions involve a potential 40-day pause in fighting alongside the release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains his stance on a potential military ground operation in Rafah, where over 2-million Palestinians are taking shelter.

Several U.S. officials including Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, and the CIA director, William Burns are involved in the talks. Blinken stressed the importance of a ceasefire.

Despite months of ceasefire talks without a breakthrough, progress remains uncertain, with a breakthrough possibly taking several more days.