CAIRO, March 27 (Xinhua) -- An Egyptian security delegation left for Doha on Thursday to continue consultations aimed at securing the release of hostages and prisoners, as part of efforts to ease tensions in the Gaza Strip during the transitional phase, local media reported.

According to Egypt's Al-Qahera news website, the talks will focus on facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza, paving the way for the next phase of the permanent ceasefire agreement.

A phased ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas began on Jan. 19, following 15 months of intense Israeli military action in Gaza.

The first phase of the agreement includes the release of 33 hostages and approximately 2,000 Palestinians detained in Israeli jails. The second phase is expected to involve the release of remaining hostages in exchange for a permanent ceasefire and the release of additional Palestinian detainees.

Israeli forces resumed airstrikes on March 18, effectively ending the first phase of the ceasefire that started in January. Enditem

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