Hamas announced on Jan. 13, 2026 that a delegation led by Khalil al-Hayya arrived in Cairo on Tuesday evening to advance talks with Egyptian officials over the Gaza ceasefire.
The group, representing the movement’s leadership in Gaza, is set to discuss how to fully implement the first phase of the October 2025 truce. Key topics include the reopening of the Rafah crossing in both directions and ensuring a smooth transition toward the second phase of the deal.
- Opening Rafah crossing for people and aid
- Forming a Palestinian technocrats committee
- Completing the occupation’s withdrawal from Gaza
Hamas also plans to sit down with leaders of Palestinian forces and factions to review rapid political and field developments in Gaza and the West Bank.
Under the ceasefire terms, Gaza is to be administered by a transitional committee of Palestinian technocrats, overseen by an international "Board of Peace." The agreement requires Hamas to disarm and step back from formal governance roles.
The Rafah crossing – a vital gateway for Palestinians and humanitarian aid – has been mostly closed since May 2024, when Israeli forces took control of its Palestinian side. Israel has said it will fully reopen the crossing once all hostages are returned.
As talks kick off in Cairo, all eyes will be on whether the parties can build on the first phase and speed up progress toward a lasting calm in Gaza. 🕊️
Reference(s):
Hamas says delegation arrives in Cairo for talks over Gaza ceasefire
cgtn.com
