Hamas chief heads to Cairo for talks ahead of Kushner visit

On 16 August 2026, Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and a delegation arrived in Cairo, where they held talks with Egypt's intelligence chief on the Gaza plan. US envoy Jared Kushner also travelled to Egypt and met a Hamas delegation, which was described as a rare meeting with the Hamas leader. The talks concern Phase Two of Trump's Gaza plan and efforts to keep the Gaza truce in place.

Kushner also met Egyptian President El-Sisi, and both stressed that all parties need to fulfil their Gaza ceasefire obligations. A Board of Peace delegation took part in the Cairo talks. Hamas raised Israel's compliance with the roadmap. Kushner is due to meet Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu next.