Ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas in Cairo are reportedly making significant progress, according to two Egyptian security sources. While parties have reached a consensus on a long-term truce in Gaza, disagreements remain, primarily over Hamas’ refusal to disarm—a key Israeli demand. Egyptian intelligence chief General Hassan Mahmoud Rashad is meeting with Israeli strategic affairs minister Ron Dermer to discuss the issue. Although details remain sparse, both Egyptian and Israeli delegations are involved, with no immediate public statements from either Israel or Hamas. Mediators Egypt and Qatar have not released formal updates. Qatar’s Prime Minister noted that discussions in Doha showed some progress but no finalized agreement. He indicated that Hamas is willing to release the remaining Israeli hostages if Israel ends its offensive; however, Israel insists on the hostages’ release without detailing a concrete end to military operations. Israel resumed attacks on Gaza on March 18 after a January ceasefire failed. The conflict, which began with Hamas’ October 7, 2023 attack resulting in 1,200 Israeli deaths and 251 hostages, has since led to over 52,000 Palestinian deaths, per local health authorities. Approximately 24 hostages are believed to remain alive.