JERUSALEM – The recent high-level talks in Cairo, aimed at bringing about a cease-fire and a potential hostage deal to temporarily end the 10-month Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, concluded on Sunday without a final agreement, as per a U.S. official. However, the discussions will continue with lower level “working teams” in the coming days to address any remaining disagreements and bridge the gaps.
The U.S. official, speaking anonymously, described the talks as “constructive,” with all parties working towards reaching an implementable agreement. The negotiations involved CIA director William Burns and David Barnea, the head of Israel’s Mossad intelligence agency, while the Hamas delegation was briefed by Egyptian and Qatari mediators but did not directly participate in the negotiations.
The talks came after Israel and Lebanese militant group Hezbollah traded heavy fire, avoiding a full-scale war, with both sides indicating the end of their intense exchange. Hezbollah’s attack on an Israeli military intelligence site near Tel Aviv, following Israel’s killing of a top militant commander in Beirut, was seen as retaliation but held back to allow Gaza cease-fire talks to progress.
Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah hinted at a possible future response pending the results of the attack, as tensions in the region remained high despite the recent de-escalation.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized the need for continued vigilance and readiness, suggesting that the recent events were not the end of the story.
The U.S. and other mediators are closely monitoring the situation, with key figures involved in efforts to prevent a wider conflict and maintain stability in the region. Talks will resume to address the remaining issues and work towards a comprehensive agreement.
The recent developments highlight the delicate balance in the Middle East and the ongoing efforts to prevent further escalation of conflicts that could have far-reaching consequences.
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