In the midst of escalating tensions in the Gaza Strip, cease-fire talks have resumed in Cairo, Egypt, on Sunday (March 31), according to reports from Al Jazeera and Egyptian media outlets.
Representatives from Hamas and Israel are set to engage in discussions mediated by Egypt, with the participation of foreign ministers from France and Jordan. The talks aim to broker an "immediate and permanent ceasefire" in Gaza and address the release of hostages held by Hamas.
The resumption of negotiations comes as the situation in Gaza remains volatile, with reports of continued violence and casualties. On Saturday (March 30), at least 17 people were killed and 30 others injured in an Israeli attack targeting a relief truck at Al Kuwait Roundabout in Gaza, as reported by Al Jazeera.
Eyewitnesses described a harrowing scene as Israeli forces launched a massive assault on food trucks, exacerbating an already dire humanitarian situation. This attack follows previous incidents, including a gun attack last Friday that resulted in the deaths of five Palestinians during aid distribution at the same roundabout.
Despite the urgency of the situation, Hamas initially expressed reluctance to participate in the talks, stating a preference to observe initial discussions between mediators and the Israeli representative before making a decision.
As tensions persist and casualties mount, the international community, represented by mediators from Egypt, France, and Jordan, is urging both sides to demonstrate flexibility and commit to finding a lasting solution to the conflict in Gaza. The outcome of the talks remains uncertain, but hopes for a peaceful resolution remain high amidst ongoing efforts to de-escalate the situation.
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