Israel and Hamas are set to engage in indirect negotiations in Egypt, aimed at potentially ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza based on a 20-point ceasefire plan proposed by former President Donald Trump. The Hamas delegation, led by Khalil al-Hayya, arrived in Sharm el-Sheikh and will initiate discussions on ceasefire mechanisms, the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and a possible prisoner exchange.
The Israeli delegation, under the leadership of negotiator Ron Dermer, is scheduled to join the talks. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed optimism about a potential agreement that could lead to the release of remaining hostages. Trump noted that discussions are progressing rapidly, with technical teams meeting to finalize details.
Despite calls from Trump for Israel to pause its military operations, reports indicate that Israeli airstrikes have continued. On a recent Sunday, sources reported at least 24 Palestinian casualties, including asylum seekers near an aid distribution center in Rafah. Ongoing attacks in both displaced areas and Gaza City have prevented residents from finding peace amidst the conflict.
The Gaza Government Media Office reported that over 2,700 families have been erased from civil records in the past two years, with significant losses among children and medical personnel. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio acknowledged a precarious situation, urging an end to the airstrikes to facilitate the release of hostages.
According to Trump’s ceasefire proposal, Hamas would need to release its captives, while Israel would retreat to its August positions. However, Israeli officials have indicated a desire to maintain control in Gaza, suggesting that disarmament and continued military oversight would be essential to protect Israeli communities.
Further context emerged from a joint statement by foreign ministers from several Arab nations, who expressed support for the negotiations and called for a ceasefire. They also welcomed Hamas’ readiness to transfer Gaza’s administration to a transitional body of independent technocrats. Trump’s team, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, is actively engaged in the talks, while some flexibility in the ceasefire plan remains under consideration.
Source: https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/10/5/israel-strikes-gaza-killing-24-before-egypt-talks-on-trump-ceasefire-plan?traffic_source=rss