Negotiators from Israel and Hamas are set to engage in indirect talks in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, aimed at addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. This development marks the closest both parties have come to negotiating a resolution since the onset of hostilities two years ago. Central to the discussions is Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan, which has gained partial acceptance from Hamas and full endorsement from Israel, though it remains a short framework with substantial unresolved issues.
One critical aspect of the plan involves the release of hostages, with Trump asserting that all remaining captives could be freed within 72 hours of reaching an agreement. Current estimates suggest that there are still 48 Israeli hostages in Gaza, with 20 believed to be alive. While Hamas has consented to the proposed hostage exchange, the timing depends on specific conditions being met, raising questions about their willingness to release hostages before finalizing other parts of the deal. Amid concerns about trust, it is noteworthy that an Israeli airstrike last month targeted the Hamas negotiation team, which has created further tension.
The plan also calls for the disarmament of Hamas, a demand the group has historically rejected until the establishment of a Palestinian state. The absence of a mention of disarmament in Hamas’s recent response indicates that their stance may not have shifted. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to disarm Hamas “by any means necessary.”
Additionally, the future governance of Gaza is addressed in the plan, suggesting the establishment of a transitional Palestinian technocratic body with eventual authority granted to the Palestinian Authority (PA). Netanyahu’s consent to Trump’s plan contrasts with his reluctance to allow the PA a role in Gaza, highlighting potential opposition from hardliners in his coalition who aim to maintain control over the region.
A final contentious issue is the planned Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, which entails conditions that need agreement from all involved parties. The White House has shared a map outlining a phased withdrawal; however, discrepancies with the Israeli military’s own maps and lack of a clear timeline for full withdrawal may complicate negotiations. As talks progress, clarity on these matters remains essential for resolving the conflict.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c930v44dg2ro?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss