After nearly two years of conflict, Hamas and Israeli delegations have convened in Egypt to kick off US-brokered talks on President Donald Trump's 20-point Gaza ceasefire plan. The goal: end hostilities, free 48 remaining hostages, and set a roadmap for lasting peace.
Hamas's chief negotiator, Khalil al-Hayya, led the delegation to Sharm El-Sheikh on Sunday. Israel's high-level team, headed by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, is set to join on Monday. Talks will focus on prisoner exchange mechanisms, weapons handover, and the step-by-step implementation of the plan's first phase.
Results from both sessions will be delivered to US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Egyptian officials describe these indirect talks as a 'real opportunity' to achieve a sustainable ceasefire after more than 67,000 Palestinians have lost their lives and famine grips the Gaza Strip.
On the ground, Gaza residents report a slight pullback in strikes. 'The tanks have moved back, but this feels tactical, not a withdrawal,' says Muin Abu Rajab, a resident of Al-Rimal. Meanwhile, Israel warns that operations could resume if negotiations stall, with military chief Eyal Zamir stating, 'There is no ceasefire, but there is a change in the operational situation.'
The US proposal calls for a complete halt of hostilities, rapid hostage release within 72 hours, phased Israeli withdrawal, and the disarmament of Hamas – an element the group has labeled a red line. As global eyes turn to Sharm El-Sheikh, the world waits to see if these indirect discussions will break the two-year stalemate or spark a new political chapter.
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Hamas, Israel to begin indirect talks over Trump's Gaza plan in Egypt
cgtn.com
