Egypt's constructive approach towards hostage exchange in Gaza

CAIRO - 3 April 2024: Egypt has continued to play a constructive role in the hostage exchange plan since the beginning of the Israeli aggression against Gaza.

President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi spoke over the phone with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas on April1, reaffirmed Egypt's unwavering commitment to providing all forms of support to the Palestinian people and leadership.

Netanyahu's office announced that the negotiating delegation in the prisoner exchange talks would return today from Cairo after intensive discussions. Mediators have offered a modified proposal awaiting Hamas' response, facilitated through constructive Egyptian mediation.

Thousands of Israeli protesters gathered near Netanyahu's residence yesterday to demand his resignation and denounce his government, along with exemptions granted to ultra-Orthodox Jews from military service. Protest groups rallied outside the Knesset, calling for new elections to replace the current government.

Netanyahu's government faces widespread criticism for its security failures regarding Hamas' attack on southern Israel. Amid escalating protests, Netanyahu underwent surgery for a hernia after less than a year since receiving a pacemaker.

Netanyahu's office stated that during a routine check-up, a hernia was discovered, and he would undergo general anesthesia for surgery later. Justice Minister Yariv Levin will temporarily assume Netanyahu's duties during his recovery period.

The Rafah crossing border between Egypt and Palestine witnessed the entry of number of trucks from the Egyptian side into the Gaza Strip transporting aid, relief materials, and various humanitarian goods.

Serval wounded and injured people also crossed from the Gaza Strip for treatment in Egyptian hospitals, according to the official announced data.

Up to 41 wounded and injured people and their companions have crossed on April1, along with 88 Egyptians residing in Gaza, 300 travelers, a number of foreign residency holders, and 70 students.

Also, nearly 88 trucks were recorded to cross the orders carrying food, medicines and various supplies.

That is in addition to 300 Palestinians who have residency permits in Egypt and a number of Arab and non-Arab countries as well as 70 students in tertiary education.