Ceasefire Talks in Cairo End Without Agreement

Recent high-level talks in Cairo aimed at reaching a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas ended without an agreement, although discussions will continue through lower-level working groups. US officials described the talks as 'constructive', expressing hope for an eventual resolution, despite setbacks including new demands from Israel that Hamas has rejected. Hamas leaders criticized the US for creating false hopes about a nearing agreement and emphasized they would not accept changes to previously agreed terms. While Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has indicated acceptance of a US-proposed ceasefire, Hamas has reiterated its unwillingness to negotiate new conditions or abandon earlier commitments. The backdrop of ongoing violence includes recent exchanges of fire between Israel and Hezbollah, highlighting the precarious situation. Overall, while the US remains optimistic, significant gaps between the parties persist, prolonging the conflict's resolution.