In a high-stakes push to end a nearly two-year war, negotiators from Hamas and Israel have convened in Egypt's Red Sea resort of Sharm El-Sheikh for critical talks on a hostage-prisoner exchange.
Foreign ministers from several countries, including Egypt, called this a real opportunity to achieve a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza. The diplomatic effort follows Hamas's positive response to a U.S. roadmap by President Donald Trump, outlining a swap of captives for Palestinians held in Israeli jails.
A senior Hamas official told AFP on condition of anonymity that the group is very keen to reach an agreement and immediately begin the prisoner exchange process according to field conditions. On Israel's side, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has directed his team to finalize technical details swiftly and has expressed hope that hostages could be released within days.
Cairo, which is hosting the talks, confirmed it is also facilitating a Hamas delegation to discuss logistics and ground conditions for the exchange of all Israeli detainees and Palestinian prisoners. Success in this round could build momentum for broader peace efforts.
If all sides agree, the exchange could begin within days, offering a glimmer of hope for a ceasefire in Gaza.
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Hamas calls for swift prisoner release as talks set to begin
cgtn.com
