Mediators working towards a ceasefire in Gaza have concluded a second day of talks, with U.S. officials expressing cautious optimism about the progress made. A senior administration official indicated that the negotiations are in the \"endgame,\" suggesting that a deal is close to being finalized. However, key agreements between Israel and Hamas remain unresolved, particularly regarding new language proposed by U.S., Qatari, and Egyptian mediators.

The framework for the initial phase of a six-week ceasefire has been established, which includes the release of over 30 hostages held by Hamas and 700 Palestinian detainees by Israel, alongside a surge in humanitarian aid and a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Despite this progress, disputes persist, necessitating the new bridging proposal aimed at reconciling differences.

Three main issues are currently under discussion: Israel's demand to control the Philadelphia corridor between Gaza and Egypt, which is reportedly moving in a favorable direction; the establishment of checkpoints within Gaza to prevent the movement of weapons; and the sequencing of the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

U.S., Egyptian, and Qatari officials plan to reconvene in Cairo next week, with the goal of finalizing the deal. The outcome of these discussions could significantly impact the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the broader regional dynamics.