Truce discussions between Israel and Hamas are scheduled to resume in Cairo on Sunday, as reported by Egyptian television station Al Qahera News TV. The aim is to achieve a temporary cessation of hostilities following nearly six months of conflict in the Gaza Strip.

An Israeli official confirmed that a delegation from Israel will attend the talks in Cairo on Sunday. However, a Hamas official stated that the group would wait for updates from Cairo mediators regarding the outcomes of previous talks with Israel.

Negotiations, facilitated by Qatar and Egypt, are focused on a six-week suspension of Israel's offensive in exchange for releasing 40 of the 130 hostages still held by Hamas in Gaza.

Hamas aims to use any agreement to end the fighting and withdraw Israeli forces, while Israel has indicated it will continue efforts to weaken Hamas militarily and dismantle its governance structures.

Additionally, Hamas seeks the return of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who fled Gaza City and surrounding areas during the conflict. Israel is open to discussing the return of some displaced individuals.

The toll of the conflict has been significant, with over 32,000 Palestinians killed since the military offensive began on October 7. The conflict escalated after Hamas militants breached the border, leading to widespread violence and casualties on both sides.

Despite the truce talks, Israel continued its military operations in Gaza, resulting in further casualties and damage. The situation remains complex, with ongoing battles and humanitarian concerns, including reports of blockades in hospitals and accusations of targeting civilians by both sides.

(Courtesy: Reuters)