Israel, Hamas Begin Talks on 2nd Gaza Truce Phase

Negotiations between Israel and Hamas on the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire began on Thursday, Egypt said, averting a collapse ahead of Saturday's expiration of the agreement's first phase.

- Agence France-Presse

KHAN YOUNIS: Officials from Israel, Qatar and the US started "intensive discussions" on the ceasefire's second phase in Cairo, Egypt's state information service said.

"The mediators are also discussing ways to enhance the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip, as part of efforts to alleviate the suffering of the population and support stability in the region," its statement said.

Phase 2 talks are meant to negotiate an end to the war, including the return of all remaining hostages in Gaza who are alive, and the withdrawal of all Israeli troops from the territory.