Hamas representatives visited Egypt on Monday in anticipation of discussions with Israel, aiming to end the conflict in Gaza and secure the release of hostages. Despite challenges such as the disarmament of the Palestinian group according to Donald Trump’s proposal, negotiations were scheduled to commence as the conflict in Gaza entered its second year. The majority of Gaza’s 2.2 million residents are facing homelessness and hunger after Israeli airstrikes that have resulted in the deaths of more than 67,000 Palestinians, predominantly civilians, as reported by Gaza health officials.
Israelis vividly recall the events of October 7, 2023, when fighters affiliated with Hamas infiltrated Israeli communities, causing the deaths of 1,200 individuals, mostly civilians, and the abduction of 251 hostages. This incident marked the bloodiest day for Jews since the Holocaust and triggered the ongoing conflict. Israeli delegates were set to travel to Sharm el-Sheikh in Egypt to discuss the release of hostages, a key component of the 20-point plan put forward by the U.S. president to resolve the conflict.
Despite deep-seated distrust between the parties involved, a Palestinian official close to the negotiations expressed skepticism about the potential for a breakthrough, citing concerns that Israel might abandon the talks once the hostages are returned. The Israeli delegation includes representatives from intelligence agencies Mossad and Shin Bet, as well as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s advisers. Notably, Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer was expected to join the discussions later in the week, pending developments.
The Hamas delegation, led by Khalil Al-Hayya, sought clarity on the process for exchanging hostages for Palestinian prisoners, alongside demands for an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and a ceasefire. One contentious issue is the Israeli demand, mirrored in Trump’s plan, for Hamas to disarm. In response, Hamas insists on Israeli withdrawal from occupied territories before any disarmament can occur.
Prime Minister Netanyahu’s rejection of a Palestinian state, in contrast to international recognition of Palestinian independence, has isolated Israel globally. The negotiations, which began on Monday, are anticipated to be protracted as both sides work towards a comprehensive agreement. President Trump expressed optimism about the progress, urging swift action to implement the plan.
The ongoing conflict has had devastating humanitarian consequences, with many Palestinians in Gaza facing food shortages, inadequate shelter, and limited medical care. As negotiations proceed, Palestinians in Gaza are cautiously hopeful for a resolution, having endured failed mediation attempts in the past. Domestic pressures on Netanyahu to end the conflict clash with demands from ultra-nationalist factions within his government, threatening the stability of his leadership. Opposition leaders advocate for political support to facilitate the success of the negotiation efforts and prevent hardline ministers from derailing the peace process.