Israel and Hamas have not yet responded, though a Palestinian official indicated that Hamas may consider new offers but remains firm that any agreement should end the conflict and withdraw Israeli forces from Gaza. Israel, however, insists it cannot halt operations if it means allowing Hamas to regroup after significant recent losses.
El-Sisi's proposal comes after CIA Director William Burns and Mossad Director David Barnea met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Doha for renewed discussions on a ceasefire and hostages — the first such meeting in two months. Egypt and Qatar have played central roles in mediating between Israel and Hamas, with Cairo previously stepping in as a mediator during the 2014 and 2021 Gaza conflicts.
In November 2023, Egypt and Qatar facilitated a temporary seven-day pause, enabling Hamas to release 81 Israeli hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners. However, the pause broke down on Dec. 1 after Hamas failed to provide a list of remaining captives and resumed rocket attacks.
Of over 250 hostages taken on Oct. 7, 2023, 101 remain in Gaza. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken said on Oct. 24 that it remains unclear if Hamas is prepared to engage in talks, with more clarity expected soon.
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