Egypt’s intelligence chief, Hamas delegation discuss way forward on Gaza peace efforts

Head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service Hassan Rashad receives a Hamas delegation led by the movement’s political bureau chief Khalil Al-Hayya. Extra News

CAIRO – 16 August 2026: Head of the Egyptian General Intelligence Service Hassan Rashad received a Hamas delegation led by the movement’s political bureau chief Khalil Al-Hayya, Extra News reported on Sunday.

The two sides discussed ways to advance the implementation of the outcomes of the Sharm El-Sheikh Peace Summit and US President Donald Trump’s plan for Gaza.

Hamas praised Egypt’s efforts to consolidate stability in Gaza and safeguard the Palestinian people’s interests and resources.

The movement also reaffirmed its commitment to completing the implementation of Trump’s plan to end the suffering of Gaza’s residents and begin reconstruction efforts.

The visit comes at a particularly significant time, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement last month of a breakthrough in efforts to end the war under his plan agreed upon by Israel and Hamas.

The Board of Peace, established under the peace plan, posted a 15-point roadmap following Trump’s statement, calling for an Israeli military withdrawal, the decommissioning of armed militias in the enclave, alongside the deployment of an International Stabilization Force working with a new Palestinian police force to secure Gaza.

Hamas agreed to the roadmap but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin rejected it, saying Israel will not withdraw its forces until Hamas is “genuinely” disarmed.

Hamas spokesperson said on Telegram today that the meetings with Egyptian officials are aimed at briefing them on Israeli violations and ensuring that Israel abides by the roadmap agreed with the Board of Peace.

Despite a ceasefire that took effect in Gaza last October, Israeli forces have continued near daily attacks, killing hundreds of Palestinians and injuring thousands since then.