A high-stakes showdown unfolds in Cairo as Egypt and Qatar push Hamas toward a new ceasefire framework — but Israel warns it will only accept a full hostage release, rejecting any partial deal.
Egyptian intelligence chief Hassan Rashad held a tense meeting in Cairo on Sunday with senior leaders of Hamas and Islamic Jihad, including Khalil al-Hayya and Ziyad al-Nakhalah, according to Al Akhbar. The talks come as Qatar’s Al-Araby revealed that Hamas has received a new ceasefire proposal expected to shape the fate of both hostages and the Gaza war.
The proposal, described as a framework agreement, includes:
- A gradual IDF withdrawal from Gaza
- A phased release of hostages
- A final arrangement backed by U.S. guarantees
Egypt, acting as chief mediator, urged Hamas to remain in Cairo until an agreement is finalized. The Hamas delegation is also set to meet with Qatar’s Prime Minister, alongside other Palestinian factions, in what officials describe as a “last-chance” round of negotiations.
Meanwhile, Channel 12 News reported that an official privately told hostage families that a partial deal may still be possible, despite Israel’s public rejection. Families of captives are pressing the government to present a concrete roadmap to bring their loved ones home.
A source familiar with the talks admitted that while Israel insists on an “all-for-all” deal, “red lines may shift if Hamas agrees to a partial arrangement.”
However, the Prime Minister’s Office issued a firm statement Sunday, vowing that Israel will only agree to a single-phase release of all hostages— and only under conditions that dismantle Hamas’ military capabilities, demilitarize Gaza, secure Israeli control over the perimeter, and install a post-Hamas, non-PA governing authority capable of coexisting peacefully with Israel.
As pressure mounts in Cairo, the clock is ticking on whether Hamas will bend or risk total collapse under Israeli firepower.
