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Israel on Thursday announced that it was sending negotiators to Cairo for talks, seeking to extend the first phase of a ceasefire due to expire in two days.

This was apparently aimed at securing the release of more hostages while delaying any final deal on Gaza’s future.

This came after Hamas handed over the bodies of four hostages, the last due to be released under the terms of the six-week first phase of the ceasefire that started on January 19.

Talks have yet to begin on a second phase that would ultimately lead to a permanent end to the war.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar told reporters in Jerusalem that the delegation would travel to Egypt to see whether there was common ground to negotiate an extension of the truce.

“We said we are ready to make the framework longer in return for the release of more hostages. If it is possible, we’ll do that.”

According to Israeli government officials, Israel was seeking to extend the initial phase, with Hamas freeing three hostages each week in exchange for Palestinians held by Israel.

The warring sides have not spelled out what would happen beyond Saturday if the first phase of the ceasefire expires with no agreement.

Egypt and Qatar are mediating between Israel and Hamas, with the backing of the United States.

The initial phase of the ceasefire included the handover of 33 Israeli hostages in return for some 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees held in Israeli jails.