Egypt is set to host high-level talks today, Monday, bringing together representatives from Israel and Hamas in a renewed bid to end the war in Gaza.
The discussions, held in Sharm El-Sheikh, aim to finalize a ceasefire agreement based on U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace proposal unveiled last week.
Israel and Hamas Mediated Talks Focus
According to Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the initial focus of the mediated talks will be a hostage exchange deal, involving the release of Israeli captives held in Gaza in return for Palestinian prisoners in Israel.
Hamas confirmed that a delegation led by senior negotiator Khalil al-Hayya has arrived in Egypt, while Israel’s team is headed by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer.
Trump Expects Positive Results
The U.S. delegation includes Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the indirect negotiations will last only a few days, with mediation by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.S.
Trump expressed optimism, saying he expects “positive results” this week and urged all sides to move quickly.
Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to a ceasefire and a prisoner exchange but maintained its demand for a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, rejecting disarmament clauses in Trump’s plan.
