Hamas delegation concludes Cairo talks on Gaza ceasefire
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The talks focused on a Gaza ceasefire, prisoner exchange, and urgent humanitarian relief amid the ongoing blockade.
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A boy stands next to an al-Qassam Brigades fighter standing in position ahead of handing over four bodies to the Red Cross in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Palestine, on February 20, 2025. (AP)
A senior Hamas delegation, led by Mohammad Darwish, Chairman of the movement's Shura Council, departed Cairo on Saturday evening after holding a series of intensive talks with Egyptian officials. The discussions focused on securing a Gaza ceasefire, facilitating a prisoner exchange, and addressing the worsening humanitarian crisis in the region.
Focus on prisoner exchange, humanitarian crisis
In a statement following the talks, Hamas emphasized the urgency of reaching a ceasefire and the need for international support to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The delegation highlighted the importance of continued diplomatic efforts to achieve a comprehensive agreement that would not only halt the violence but also address critical humanitarian issues.
The statement detailed Hamas’ vision for a lasting peace, which includes a "permanent ceasefire," the exchange of prisoners, and the urgent facilitation of humanitarian relief and reconstruction for the Gaza Strip. The delegation also drew attention to the "dire humanitarian situation" caused by more than two months of a severe blockade, imposed by Israeli occupation forces, which has restricted the entry of essential aid, food, and medical supplies.
Blockade deepens suffering in Gaza
The Hamas delegation stressed the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza, who continue to face severe shortages due to the Israeli blockade. They called for "urgent action to deliver aid" to address the immediate needs of the population and pressed for a swift resolution to the escalating crisis.
Mediators and Hamas agreed to "exert further efforts" and "maintain open communication" to progress towards a final agreement.
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