Negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire and the release of hostages between Israel and Hamas in Gaza are reportedly making headway, two Egyptian security sources told Reuters.
The Egyptian officials said that talks currently taking place in Cairo appear to be moving toward a “significant breakthrough.”
According to the officials, while a broad agreement has been reached on the framework for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, several critical issues remain unresolved, particularly regarding what will happen to Hamas’ arsenal.
Israeli sources, however, disputed the claims, telling Kan 11 News that “there is no real progress at this time.”
At the same time, Egypt’s Al Qahera News TV, which is tied to the government, reported that General Hassan Mahmoud Rashad, Egypt’s top intelligence official, is slated to meet with an Israeli delegation headed by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.
On Shabbos, Asharq Al-Awsat revealed that Egypt and Qatar have put forward a new initiative proposing a six-month truce in Gaza, the release of all hostages being held, and the freeing of convicted terrorists.
Previously, Hamas informed AFP that the group is ready to agree to a deal that would see the release of all 59 remaining hostages at once, along with a five-year ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Just last week, Hamas turned down an Israeli offer that demanded the terror group disarm in exchange for a six-week ceasefire.
{Matzav.com Israel}