This developed as the United States airdropped over 38,000 meals to the thousands of Palestinians trapped in Rafah, which is currently the target of Israel strikes. At least 25 have been reported dead due to the shelling.

Early reports from Cairo revealed that Israel and Hamas delegations, together with mediators from various countries, were due to arrive in the Egyptian capital.

However, there were also reports that Israeli balked and will not join the talks.

Hopes for a ceasefire in the fighting were raised last week after it was reported that mediations by Qatar and Egypt were acceptable to the warring parties.

President Joe Biden has also aired strong optimism for an immediate end to the fighting.

Biden said he expects the ceasefire to take place before the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan starts on March 10.

The US president and fellow leaders in the world have aired strong concern over the plight of Palestinians who have been caught in the crossfire of fighting, with Hamas allegedly using them as shields against the strong Israeli forces.

The Hamas has been blamed for initiating the war by attacking civilian villages in Israel and in the process, killing 1,200 Israelis, mostly unarmed civilians last October 7.

The situation in Gaza is pathetic as hunger and sickness have plagued thousands of Palestinians.

Last week, Gaza health authorities blamed Israelis for the death of 118 people in a stampede for relief goods from a convoy of trucks near Gaza City.

Israelis have allegedly opened fire at the civilians, although there were contradicting reports about what really took place.

Aside from the US, Jordan and Frances have started airdropping food and relief goods to help guarantee that the targeted beneficiaries are reached.