Cairo has hosted a new round of diplomatic discussions aimed at supporting the Gaza ceasefire and increasing humanitarian assistance to Palestinians. The meeting brought together the heads of the intelligence services of Egypt, Turkey and Qatar, who discussed the latest developments in the territory and the need to move forward with the existing ceasefire arrangements. According to Egypt’s Middle East News Agency, the participants agreed on the importance of completing the first phase of the agreement and ensuring that its main provisions are respected. They also called for an immediate halt to continuing attacks and urged practical steps towards a lasting and sustainable peace.
The discussions took place as Gaza continues to face a serious humanitarian emergency. Recent Israeli strikes have caused further casualties, including an attack on a building housing the surgical department of Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis. Medical sources reported that at least six people were killed and around 30 others injured. The incident forced the hospital’s surgery department out of service, adding pressure to an already strained health system. Other attacks were also reported in different parts of the territory, including areas where displaced families have been seeking shelter.
Winter weather has made conditions even more difficult. Heavy rain and strong winds have flooded displacement camps, damaged temporary shelters and left thousands of families exposed to cold temperatures. The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs has reported that approximately 46,000 households have been affected by flooding and more than 40,000 family shelters have been damaged. Humanitarian organisations have also warned that large quantities of tents and other essential supplies remain outside Gaza because of restrictions and delays at crossings.
The Cairo meeting placed particular emphasis on increasing the delivery of humanitarian assistance, including tents, blankets, medical supplies and equipment needed to repair damaged shelters. Egypt, Turkey and Qatar have played important roles in previous mediation efforts, but the latest discussions underline how difficult it remains to secure full implementation of the ceasefire. The mediators are now calling for stronger action to protect civilians, improve access for aid agencies and prevent further deterioration of living conditions across Gaza.
