Ceasefire in Gaza nears deadline with no clear next steps

The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is set to end on Saturday, with no clear plans for the next phase. Negotiations for a second phase, which would involve the release of remaining hostages, have not yet started. Hamas has released all 25 living hostages from the first phase but still holds over 60 captives. Israel has delayed the release of Palestinian prisoners, complicating further negotiations. Both sides are facing increased pressure as mistrust deepens. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is returning to the region to discuss a possible extension of the ceasefire. Egypt, a key mediator, has stated that discussions for an extension will not occur until negotiations for the second phase begin.