The Lebanese newspaper Al-Akhbar reported Thursday that Egypt is awaiting the Israeli government's response to a proposed temporary ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip.
Sources informed the Hezbollah-affiliated publication that Egyptian officials cautioned their Israeli counterparts during discussions that rejecting the proposal would lead to "a dark tunnel with no hope of saving the living hostages." The report indicated that Egyptian officials conveyed to Israeli leadership that Hamas has demonstrated flexibility during discussions with Egypt's intelligence chief in Cairo regarding the proposal.
Arab media reports suggest Israel's response will come with the Israeli security delegation's visit to Cairo, which is expected in the coming days. However, the visit has reportedly been delayed due to several unresolved issues.
Egyptian sources indicated the possibility of Israel securing the release of the largest number of hostages to date, partially in exchange for increased humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The sources also noted that Egypt would serve as a guarantor for Hamas' commitment to the agreement.
Reports indicate that officials from Qatar, Turkey, and the US conducted discussions about the hostage release process and prioritization criteria for determining which individuals would be freed. Egyptian sources expressed confidence in assurances provided by senior officials from President-elect Donald Trump's incoming administration.
A source close to the negotiations told Reuters that Steve Whitkoff met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed al-Thani in an effort to advance a ceasefire agreement before Trump's inauguration. The source confirmed that Qatar has resumed its role as mediator between Israel and Hamas, with a Hamas delegation expected to travel to Doha for further discussions.
Arab media outlets yesterday revealed details from the draft proposal being developed in Egypt. Reports indicate that regional actors are working to adapt the Lebanese model to Gaza, aiming to establish an extended ceasefire lasting approximately two months. The emerging proposal reportedly includes a strategic redeployment of IDF forces within Gaza, rather than an immediate full withdrawal.
The proposal also addresses control of the Rafah crossing, with Egyptian officials intensifying pressure on Hamas and Fatah to reach agreements regarding both a committee for Gaza Strip administration and management of the crossing. The proposed framework would transfer control of the southern Gaza crossing to the Palestinian Authority, allowing its reoperation after months of closure.
