ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The leader of Hamas, Ismail Haniyeh, has traveled to Egypt for discussions on potential truce agreements and the release of hostages in the Gaza war.
Haniyeh, based in Qatar, arrived in Cairo to meet with Egypt’s spy chief to address the ongoing aggression in the Gaza Strip.
The visit follows Haniyeh’s meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian in Qatar. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed efforts to free hostages, revealing that Mossad chief David Barnea had engaged in talks with CIA director Bill Burns and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.
READ ALSO: Israel-Hamas: Biden Calls For Extension Of Truce
The discussions in Egypt are expected to focus on proposals, including a week-long truce leading to the release of Israeli hostages, with potential extensions based on agreed conditions.
The Gaza war, initiated by Hamas militants in October, has resulted in casualties and abductions on both sides. Israeli President Isaac Herzog indicated readiness for a humanitarian pause and additional aid to facilitate hostage release, while the UN Security Council is set to vote on a resolution calling for a suspension of hostilities.
Despite diplomatic efforts, fighting continues, with Israeli military spokesman Daniel Hagari emphasizing the ongoing mission to dismantle Hamas.
The conflict has led to displacement and humanitarian concerns in Gaza, prompting calls for targeted approaches and protection of civilians.
The situation has also raised fears of regional escalation, with cross-border exchanges between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon and Huthi rebels’ actions in the Red Sea.
The United States has established a multinational naval task force to protect the Suez Canal, a critical trade route impacted by the conflict.