Talks in Cairo aimed at securing the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza and establishing a pause in the ongoing conflict have been described as productive and serious by a U.S. official. However, despite the efforts made during these negotiations, no breakthrough has been achieved yet, leading to negotiations continuing. On the other side, an Israeli official disclosed that their delegation was on its way back from Cairo. Nevertheless, the families of the hostages are urging them to stay until a deal is reached, emphasizing the gravity of the situation by stating, 'Do not return until everyone comes home, the living and the dead.'
One of the affected families is that of Itar Hen, an IDF soldier missing in Gaza. Ruby Hen, Itar Hen's father, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss the ongoing ordeal that the families have been experiencing for the past 131 days. He stressed that the families believe the negotiators, supported by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, should remain united and dedicated to reaching a resolution. The prolonged endangerment of the hostages, with no signs of life or access to medical attention, is a violation of international law, according to the families, and they believe it should not be allowed to continue any longer.
