Egyptian media report progress in ceasefire negotiations while Israel remains skeptical about the possibility of ending the conflict with Hamas

A delegation of the Palestinian militant group Hamas was in Cairo on Saturday as Egyptian state media reported “noticeable progress” in ongoing cease-fire talks with Israel while an Israeli official downplayed the prospects for a full end to the war.

Pressure has been mounting to reach a deal as Gaza’s humanitarian crisis escalates, with more than 1 million Palestinians sheltering in the city of Rafah, many having fled northern Gaza where a top U.N. official says there is now a full-blown famine.

Egyptian and American mediators have reported signs of compromise in recent days, but the key question remains whether Israel will accept an end to the war without achieving its goal of destroying Hamas.

Israeli strikes early Saturday on Gaza killed at least six people, adding to the toll of more than 34,000 Palestinians killed in the conflict. The war erupted when Hamas attacked southern Israel, leading to widespread destruction and a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The United Nations has warned of imminent risk of death for hundreds of thousands if Israel moves forward with an invasion of Rafah, a critical entry point for humanitarian aid. The U.S. director of the U.N. World Food Program emphasized the need for a cease-fire and increased aid flow to prevent further suffering.

As negotiations continue, the proposal put forth by Egyptian mediators outlines a three-stage process for a cease-fire and release of hostages, with Hamas reportedly agreeing to the framework. The details are being hammered out, with the involvement of top Israeli negotiators signaling seriousness in reaching a resolution.

The situation remains tense as the conflict persists, with hopes for a lasting peace hanging in the balance.