Hamas delegation has arrived in Egypt for peace talks aimed at ending the war in Gaza, as part of a United States backed plan.
According to reports, high-level discussions are underway in Sharm el-Sheikh, bringing together representatives from Hamas, Israel, the United States, and Qatar.
The week-long meeting follows Hamas’ announcement last Friday that it had partially accepted several elements of Trump’s proposal to end the nearly two-year conflict in Gaza.
Under the plan’s first phase, Hamas is open to talks about hostages held by them that would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
It can be recalled, hostage-prisoner exchange is one main condition Trump discussed during his joint briefing with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House last week.
The previous briefing also prepares for Hamas’ demilitarization and a halt to Israel’s military campaign, though the group continues to reject disarmament.
Trump welcomed Hamas’ initial response, describing it as a sign that the group is ready for a lasting peace.
He also urged all negotiators to fast track the process.
While no ceasefire has yet been declared, officials say this step will be critical.
However, the totality of the proposal has caused rifts within Israeli PM Netanyahu’s ruling coalition.
A far-right minister has threatened to withdraw support if Israel halts its militarization campaign, insisting that Hamas should not be allowed to remain in power.
Despite ongoing peace efforts, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza continued over the weekend, killing at least 24 people, according to Al Jazeera. This number corresponds to the 66,000 death toll.