Indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza are set to begin in Egypt on Monday, amid calls from the US and Israel for the swift release of hostages. These talks follow Hamas’s agreement to aspects of a 20-point US peace plan, which include releasing hostages and transferring governance of Gaza to Palestinian technocrats. However, Hamas is seeking further negotiations on other issues, notably not addressing demands for disarmament.
Israeli air strikes have continued in Gaza, despite a request from President Donald Trump for Israel to halt its military operations. An Israeli government spokesperson indicated that while some bombings had ceased, no official ceasefire was in effect. Reports from Gaza confirm ongoing Israeli military actions, including air strikes and tank fire, resulting in significant destruction of residential areas.
According to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, Israeli military operations have resulted in 65 fatalities within a 24-hour period. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed that bombing must stop to facilitate the release of hostages, emphasizing the need for logistical coordination alongside a cessation of military action. The proposed 20-point plan includes an end to fighting and the release of 48 hostages, though only 20 are believed to be alive.
Israeli negotiations will take place in Egypt with the participation of US and Qatari officials. These discussions may lead to significant developments in the conflict, although the dynamics remain complicated. Analysts noted a shift in Hamas’s stance, interpreting its response to the peace proposal as potentially influenced by external pressures, while other sources highlight the risks associated with this new diplomatic flexibility.
As context, the conflict escalated following a Hamas-led attack on Israel in October 2023, resulting in substantial casualties on both sides. As they prepare for talks, both parties face a challenging environment marked by deep mistrust and ongoing military actions.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cj3y6g43248o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss