Israel announced on Thursday, February 27, that it was sending negotiators to Cairo to discuss extending the first phase of a ceasefire, which is set to expire in two days.
The goal of the talks is to secure the release of additional hostages while postponing discussions on Gaza’s long-term future.
This follows Hamas’ handover of the bodies of four hostages, marking the last releases under the six-week first phase of the ceasefire that began on January 19. Talks have yet to begin on a second phase, which could lead to a permanent resolution to the conflict.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar stated in Jerusalem that the delegation would assess “whether there was common ground to negotiate an extension of the truce.”
“We said we are ready to make the framework longer in return for the release of more hostages. If it is possible, we’ll do that.”
Israeli officials say the proposal involves Hamas freeing three hostages each week in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
It remains unclear what will happen beyond Saturday if no deal is reached.
Egypt and Qatar, with U.S. support, are mediating. The first phase involved Hamas releasing 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for about 2,000 Palestinian detainees.
