Talks aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza intensified as high-ranking officials from Israel, the US, and regional nations arrived following Hamas’ submission of lists of hostages and Palestinian prisoners for a potential exchange. The discussions, initiated on Monday in an Egyptian Red Sea resort, saw increased participation from delegations, indicating progress towards implementing US President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan.
Key figures such as Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff from the US, Ron Dermer from Israel, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani from Qatar were expected to join the negotiations. Simultaneously, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio was anticipated to engage in parallel talks in Paris with European and Arab counterparts to strategize the plan’s execution.
Although the plan enjoys broad international backing, essential specifics remain unresolved, including the timeline, post-war administration for Gaza, Hamas’s future, and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Hamas, the group responsible for initiating the conflict, expressed optimism about the ongoing talks, focusing primarily on ceasefire, Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, and the potential swap agreement.
The negotiations involve the exchange of prominent Palestinian figures, including Marwan al-Barghouti and Ahmed Saadat, both serving life sentences in Israeli prisons for deadly attacks. Hamas emphasized its commitment to addressing key issues but refused to entertain Israel’s demand for disarmament, citing the continued presence of Israeli forces on Palestinian territory.
Israel has scaled back its military operations in compliance with Trump’s directives, resulting in a decrease in casualties. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with civilians enduring immense hardship and destruction. Amidst the negotiations, hopes for a prompt ceasefire and successful outcomes are high among the affected population.
Trump’s initiative envisions a pivotal role for an international entity led by himself, supported by influential figures like Tony Blair, in overseeing Gaza’s post-war governance. Despite differing views on Palestinian statehood, concerns persist regarding Gaza’s future leadership post-conflict, as Hamas’s role remains contentious among stakeholders.
The mounting global criticism of Israel’s military actions has sparked condemnation and accusations of genocide, countered by Israel as necessary self-defence following Hamas’ provocations in 2023. The conflict’s toll on Gaza’s population has been staggering, with authorities reporting a significant number of casualties over the prolonged offensive.