Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
A senior Hamas delegation met with Egypt’s intelligence chief in Cairo on Sunday to discuss the fragile Gaza ceasefire, warning that continued Israeli violations risk undermining the agreement mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.
The delegation, which included senior figures from the movement’s political leadership, reaffirmed Hamas’s commitment to implementing the first phase of the ceasefire deal. During the talks, Hamas urged the creation of what it called a clear and enforceable monitoring mechanism under the direct supervision of international mediators to track and respond to any breaches by either side. According to the group, such a system has become essential as alleged Israeli violations continue to strain the truce.
A central part of the discussions focused on plans for the second phase of the agreement, which Hamas said must include the opening of Gaza’s border crossings and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into the besieged territory. The movement stressed that progress on this phase is necessary to stabilize conditions on the ground and reduce the risk of renewed conflict.
The fate of Hamas militants reportedly trapped in tunnel networks beneath Rafah was also raised. Hamas said communication with fighters in those tunnels has been severed and appealed for urgent intervention by mediators to address their situation. The issue has emerged as a sensitive point in ceasefire negotiations, with reports indicating that several militants remain in areas currently controlled by Israeli forces.
Tensions have been heightened by recent incidents in Gaza, where Israeli strikes killed a number of Hamas commanders and other militants. Israel maintains that its actions are responses to attacks or imminent threats posed by fighters who remain active despite the ceasefire. Palestinian health officials, meanwhile, report continued civilian casualties as a result of Israeli air operations.
Egypt’s renewed engagement highlights its central role in maintaining the ceasefire and steering discussions toward a more durable agreement. Cairo is working closely with Qatar and the United States to press both sides to adhere to the terms of the deal and to prevent the collapse of the fragile truce.
As exchanges of accusations between Israel and Hamas persist, mediators face mounting pressure to solidify mechanisms that can prevent renewed escalation and ensure compliance with the agreement’s terms. The Cairo meetings are expected to continue as efforts intensify to preserve the ceasefire and chart a path toward the next phase of negotiations.
