CAIRO, Aug 13 — Egypt announced Tuesday that it is actively collaborating with Qatar and the United States to negotiate a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, marking a renewed effort to bring a halt to the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
Since the October 7, 2023 attack by Hamas, which reignited hostilities in the region, Egypt, Qatar, and the US have been at the forefront of mediation efforts, striving to find a diplomatic path forward.
“We are working very hard now in full cooperation with the Qataris and Americans,” Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty told reporters in Cairo. “The main goal is to return to the original proposal — a 60-day ceasefire, the release of some hostages and Palestinian detainees, and unhindered humanitarian and medical aid to Gaza.”
Abdelatty emphasized that talks are ongoing with both Hamas and Israeli officials, aiming for a deal based on a recent US-proposed framework.
A Palestinian source familiar with the negotiations told AFP that mediators are aiming to present a comprehensive ceasefire proposal, potentially including the release of all remaining hostages in Gaza in a single effort.
Previous attempts to broker peace have faced setbacks. Last month, talks in Doha over a ceasefire and hostage release failed after two weeks of negotiations. Hamas negotiators withdrew following the departure of US and Israeli delegations. US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff criticized Hamas for the impasse and noted that Washington would explore alternative options.
Earlier this year, a short-lived truce collapsed without producing lasting results. Meanwhile, a senior Hamas delegation is expected in Cairo to meet with Egyptian officials, according to two Palestinian sources.
As mediators continue their efforts, the hope remains that dialogue can bring tangible relief to civilians caught in the conflict and open a path toward a longer-lasting peace.
