Cairo (TDI): The first day of indirect talks between Israel and Hamas, mediated by and hosted in Egypt with the support of the United States, came to a close on Monday on a cautiously optimistic note.
Held in Sharm el‑Sheikh, the negotiations to explore a path toward a ceasefire, hostage-prisoner exchanges, and improved humanitarian access into Gaza, were described by sources as constructive and “positive.”
While not many details are yet known, both sides appeared to signal willingness to explore parts of Trump’s 20‑point Gaza plan.
The Hamas delegation, which included leaders Khalil al‑Hayya and Zaher Jabarin, cited continued Israeli bombardment in Gaza as a major hurdle in negotiations. They pushed for a mechanism that links the release of hostages with a ceasefire in Gaza.
In Washington, the White House affirmed its commitment to an early exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said technical teams were working to “ensure the environment is perfect” for a swap.
Meanwhile, President Trump told reporters that Hamas had already committed to “things that are very important,” signaling that a deal might be within reach.
Read More: Israel, Hamas Delegations Meet in Egypt as the World Awaits Ceasefire
The 20-point proposal envisions Israel gradually withdrawing from Gaza, with no role for Hamas in the governance of Gaza, as well as complete disarmament of Hamas.
But Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has insisted his forces will maintain a robust presence “deep inside” Gaza for security reasons. Hamas, for its part, has insisted on having a say in Gaza’s political future.
These sticking points have surfaced over and over again whenever an effort towards the resolution of the conflict have been made in the past.
According to Le Monde, an initial round of hostages, reportedly 47 held in Gaza, could be released in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian detainees currently imprisoned in Israel.
The International Committee of the Red Cross has indicated its readiness to facilitate such exchanges and coordinate humanitarian access.
These indirect talks in Egypt are happening with no cessation of hostilities in Gaza. At least 10 Palestinians were killed by Israel on Monday. The UN and human rights groups continue to voice alarm over the death toll rising by each day.
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