Israel Hamas Talks Continue as Strikes Hit Lebanon

According to the reports on Friday (28 February), Negotiations between Israel and Hamas on extending the Gaza ceasefire have begun in Cairo, according to Egyptian officials. Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar confirmed that a delegation has traveled to Egypt to assess whether there is enough common ground for an extension. The first phase of the truce remains in place, with Israel releasing 46 Palestinian prisoners, including 24 children from Gaza, after a delay in verifying the bodies of four captives returned by Hamas.

An internal Israeli military investigation has acknowledged a “complete failure” to prevent the Hamas-led attack on October 7, 2023. The probe highlights lapses in intelligence and defense preparedness that allowed the assault to unfold. This admission comes as Israel continues military actions despite the ongoing ceasefire, raising concerns over the stability of the truce.

Reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes have hit northwestern Lebanon, killing two people. Witnesses said an Israeli warplane fired three missiles at a small truck in the Ad-Doura neighborhood in Hermel city. Lebanese state media confirmed the casualties but did not provide details about the victims’ identities.

In another attack, the Israeli military targeted a car in eastern Lebanon on Wednesday, killing one person who was allegedly a Hezbollah member. Additionally, the army struck a Hezbollah observation post in southern Lebanon’s Aynata area and targeted a site near the tomb of former Hezbollah leader Hashem Safieddine in Deir Qanoun Al-Nahr. These strikes indicate ongoing tensions between Israel and Hezbollah despite the ceasefire agreement.

References

• Israel Hamas Talks Resume in Cairo as Airstrikes Hit Lebanon Amid Ceasefire
• Israel, Hamas truce talks resume in Egypt as end of first phase looms