Palestinians gather near the Gaza border during a demonstration, amid ongoing tensions in the region. Photo: Xinhua

NNA News - Hamas and Palestinian delegations have begun talks in Cairo aimed at advancing the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, as mediators seek to prevent a return to conflict and resolve disputes over the future governance of the enclave. The meetings, which began on Saturday in the Egyptian capital, bring together Hamas representatives, Palestinian factions and international mediators to discuss the implementation of commitments that remain outstanding from the first phase of the ceasefire.

A Hamas delegation led by Gaza-based leader Khalil al-Hayya arrived in Cairo on Friday for the multi-day discussions. Hamas spokesperson Hazem Qassem said the talks would initially focus on measures agreed to during the first phase of the ceasefire, including ending military escalations, reopening border crossings and facilitating the entry of administrative bodies into Gaza. The discussions are also expected to address more contentious issues linked to the second phase of the agreement, including proposals for post-war governance, security arrangements and reconstruction efforts. “We prioritise the interests of the Palestinian people and seek to remove any pretexts for Israel to resume war on the Gaza Strip,” Qassem said.

The talks come at a critical moment for the October 2025 ceasefire, which significantly reduced hostilities after months of conflict but has struggled to advance beyond its initial stage. The first phase included prisoner exchanges, the delivery of humanitarian assistance and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from selected areas of Gaza. However, key issues, including Hamas disarmament, the establishment of a transitional governing authority and long-term reconstruction plans, remain unresolved.

According to proposals announced earlier this year, the second phase of the ceasefire framework would include a full Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, reconstruction efforts and the creation of a new administrative structure to govern the territory. Analysts view the Cairo talks as an important test of whether mediators can bridge differences between the parties and maintain momentum towards a more durable political settlement.

With humanitarian needs remaining acute across Gaza and reconstruction yet to begin on a meaningful scale, the outcome of the negotiations could shape the territory's political and security landscape for years to come.