The first day of resumed indirect peace talks between Israel and Hamas in Egypt concluded on a promising note Monday, raising hopes for progress in implementing US President Donald Trump’s 20-point plan to end the Gaza conflict.
Negotiators are set to return for further discussions on Tuesday.
Day one focuses on prisoners, ceasefire, and aid
Sources familiar with the Sharm el-Sheikh talks described the first session as “positive”, noting that a roadmap was drawn up for continuing negotiations.
The discussions covered:
Proposed exchange of prisoners and captives
A potential ceasefire
Humanitarian aid entering Gaza
The Hamas delegation highlighted that Israeli bombings of Gaza are complicating negotiations on the release of captives. Key Hamas negotiators present included Khalil al-Hayya and Zaher Jabarin, who survived a recent Israeli assassination attempt in Doha.
US involvement and Trump’s role
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said that President Trump is pushing for an early exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners to build momentum for the broader peace plan. “Technical teams are going over the lists of both Israeli hostages and political prisoners,” Leavitt said.
Trump, speaking from the Oval Office, expressed optimism, saying:
“We have a really good chance of making a deal… Hamas has been agreeing to things that are very important.”
He also praised Arab-Turkish support, the Israeli people, and his own special envoy Steve Witkoff, who leads the U.S. delegation. Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, is reportedly also part of the delegation.
Tuesday marks two years since the Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, which killed 1,139 people and left about 200 captive. Since then, Israeli operations in Gaza have reportedly killed at least 67,160 Palestinians and wounded 169,679, according to various human rights organizations.
Even as talks took place, Israeli forces reportedly killed 10 Palestinians, including three seeking humanitarian aid.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres acknowledged the conflict’s anniversary on social media and urged all parties to seize the current proposal to end the tragedy. He emphasized that a permanent ceasefire and credible political process are crucial to prevent further bloodshed and pave the way for lasting peace.
