Israel-Hamas talks resume as truce extended

Palestinian and Israeli negotiators in Cairo are trying to hammer out a roadmap for the Gaza Strip after Egypt announced a 24-hour extension of the ceasefire to allow more time for the talks.

The extension of the truce fanned hopes of an emerging deal, however vague, though wide gaps remain.

Palestinian delegate Qais Abdel-Kareem said discussions resumed this morning on key issues, including Israel‘s blockade of Gaza, its demands for Hamas’s disarmament and Palestinian demands for a Gaza port and airport.

Palestinian ambassador to Cairo Jamal Shoback said the Israelis have proposed arrangements that are about “not (fully) removing the blockade but easing it”.