Senior Hamas leaders arrive in Cairo for official talks

A high-ranking Hamas delegation led by Mohamed Darwish, head of its Shura Council, has arrived in Cairo.

The visit aims to discuss implementing the Gaza ceasefire agreement and a three-phase prisoner exchange with Israel, Hamas announced.

Under the agreement, in effect since January 19, Hamas is set to release 33 Israeli captives in exchange for up to 2,000 Palestinian detainees.

The first phase began with Hamas releasing three Israeli hostages in return for 90 Palestinian prisoners, including women and minors.

Egyptian officials are hosting negotiations, focusing on the ceasefire and subsequent stages of the prisoner swap.

Saturday saw Israel release 200 Palestinian detainees, while Hamas reciprocated with the release of four Israeli soldiers.

Hamas officials will also meet with freed Palestinian prisoners to discuss ongoing strategies and next steps.

Israel continues to hold over 10,300 Palestinian prisoners, while Hamas retains around 96 Israeli captives.

The ceasefire follows devastating violence that killed more than 47,300 Palestinians since October 7, 2023.

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