US President Donald Trump expressed hope yesterday for a positive resolution to the ongoing violence in Gaza as Israel commemorated the second anniversary of the October 7 assault. Talks between Israeli and Hamas representatives are underway in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, centered on a 20-point plan put forth by Trump a month ago.
During a media briefing in the Oval Office, Trump conveyed optimism about the potential for progress, noting the involvement of US negotiators in the discussions. He emphasized the broader objective of achieving peace in the Middle East beyond the immediate Gaza situation, stressing the urgent need for the release of hostages.
Trump pledged full support to ensure compliance with any agreed ceasefire between Hamas and Israel. Hamas signaled its willingness to engage in negotiations based on Trump’s plan but maintained specific demands, indicating that reaching a resolution through indirect talks in Egypt might be challenging and time-consuming.
These talks represent a significant opportunity to halt the conflict that has resulted in substantial Palestinian casualties and widespread destruction in Gaza since the 2023 attack. Hamas officials are committed to overcoming obstacles to secure an agreement that addresses the needs of Gazans.
Key sticking points include Hamas’ call for a lasting ceasefire, complete Israeli troop withdrawal from Gaza, and immediate initiation of a comprehensive reconstruction process overseen by a Palestinian governing body. Israel, on the other hand, insists on Hamas disarmament, a condition rejected by the group.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu refrained from immediate commentary on the negotiation progress. Trump’s proposed plan outlines measures for ending hostilities, releasing hostages, providing aid to Gaza, disarming Hamas, and leaving room for a potential Palestinian state.
Despite recent public opposition by Netanyahu to a Palestinian state, questions remain about governance, reconstruction financing, and Hamas’ role post-agreement. Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, will join the ongoing talks, with Qatar and Turkey sending high-level delegations to engage in the diplomatic efforts.
Meanwhile, Israel has continued its offensive in Gaza amid the absence of a ceasefire, facing mounting international criticism. Protests against Israeli actions took place in various global cities, while Palestinians in Gaza, like Abeer Abu Said, expressed desperation for an end to the prolonged conflict and its devastating toll on their lives.