In an exclusive report, Israel Hayom reveals that an Israeli negotiating delegation has been in Cairo since Monday evening for discussions on a potential hostage deal. The Egyptian government-affiliated Al-Qahera television channel reported that the delegation is being led by Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, who heads the negotiation team.
A senior Hamas official told Palestinian media that contacts with mediators are ongoing but denied that recent discussions in Cairo have yielded any progress toward a ceasefire or a hostage deal. According to the official, Hamas rejects partial and temporary solutions.
Despite Egyptian assertions, Israeli sources say that no significant breakthrough has occurred in the talks. However, the fact that the Israeli professional team is present in Egypt—where the discussions are being held—could allow for a quick agreement if understandings are reached.
In practice, Israel is investing its efforts primarily through the Egyptian channel, viewing it as the key to securing the hostages' release. By contrast, Qatar has been marked by senior Israeli officials as an actor obstructing progress.
Contrary to statements from the involved parties, the Saudi-based "Al-Arabiya" channel reported, citing its sources, that there is an apparent "principled agreement" for the release of hostages in May. Among those potentially to be freed is Idan Alexander, who holds dual Israeli-American citizenship. The report also noted that it was agreed to establish three corridors for humanitarian aid delivery into Gaza, under the supervision of mediators. As of now, there has been no independent confirmation of this report.
