High-Level Talks in Cairo Address Gaza Ceasefire
A senior delegation from the Palestinian militant group Hamas convened in Cairo on Sunday, November 23, 2025, for crucial discussions with Egypt's intelligence chief, Hassan Rashad. The meeting centered on the implementation of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, alleged Israeli violations, and the necessity of establishing a mechanism to monitor breaches. The delegation, which included prominent figures such as Khalil Al-Hayya, Muhammad Darwish, Khaled Meshaal, Nizar Awadallah, Zahir Jabarin, and Ghazi Hamad, reaffirmed Hamas's commitment to the first phase of the truce that came into effect on October 10.
Accusations of Ceasefire Violations and Call for Monitoring
During the talks, Hamas accused Israel of 'continued violations' that threaten to undermine the fragile ceasefire. The group emphasized the importance of a 'clear and defined mechanism' under the supervision of mediators to document and halt any breaches of the deal. This call comes amidst a recent surge in violence, with Gaza health officials reporting at least 20 to 21 Palestinians killed in Israeli airstrikes on Saturday. Israel, in turn, claimed to have killed a local Hamas commander, Alaa Al-Hadidi, head of supply in Hamas's production headquarters, on Sunday, and five senior Hamas members on Saturday following an attack on Israeli soldiers. Hamas denied earlier reports suggesting it had informed mediators that the ceasefire was over, reiterating its commitment to the initial phase of the agreement.
Discussions on Second Phase and Rafah Tunnels
Beyond immediate ceasefire concerns, the delegation and Egyptian intelligence chief also delved into the 'nature of the second phase' of the agreement. This phase is understood to involve complex issues such as the disarmament of Hamas, the establishment of a transitional authority in Gaza, and the potential deployment of an international stabilization force. A significant point of discussion was the urgent situation of Hamas militants trapped in Rafah tunnels, with whom communication has reportedly been cut off. The recovery of remaining Israeli bodies in Gaza, a process coordinated between Egypt, Hamas, and the International Committee of the Red Cross, was also addressed.
Mediators' Role in Fragile Truce
Egypt, alongside Qatar and the United States, has been instrumental in mediating between Hamas and Israel to secure and maintain the ceasefire. The ongoing discussions in Cairo underscore the delicate nature of the truce and the continuous efforts required by international mediators to prevent further escalation and ensure the agreement's longevity. The meeting highlighted the persistent challenges in achieving lasting peace and stability in the region, with both sides trading accusations of non-compliance.
5 Comments
Donatello
Hamas talking about violations? They started this whole mess! Typical blame game.
Raphael
20+ Palestinians killed by Israeli airstrikes? This isn't a ceasefire, it's a massacre. Shameful.
Michelangelo
The ongoing discussions in Cairo are vital for de-escalation, yet the reports of continued violence from both sides show how fragile the situation is. Mediators face an immense challenge in bridging such a wide gap of grievances and demands.
Leonardo
While it's positive that talks are happening to maintain the ceasefire, both sides accusing each other of violations makes progress incredibly difficult. A truly independent monitoring body might be the only way forward.
Michelangelo
Israel's constant violations are why this ceasefire is failing. Hamas is right to demand monitoring!