"Hamas Leader's Egypt Visit for Hostage Talks Amidst UN Vote Delays"

Hamas insists on a complete end to Israel's offensive in Gaza before engaging in hostage negotiations, as the death toll in Gaza surpasses 20,000. The US is engaged in "very serious" negotiations in Egypt for a new Gaza ceasefire and the release of more Israeli hostages, but prospects for a deal remain uncertain. A UN resolution calling for a longer ceasefire and increased aid deliveries has been delayed for a third time. The two sides are far apart on the question of a lull in fighting accompanying a prisoner exchange, with Hamas wanting a longer truce and Israel viewing it as a short pause in its campaign against Hamas.