Indirect talks between Israeli and Hamas delegations for a lasting ceasefire and the release of the hostages have entered a decisive phase in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The initiative, brokered by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, is based on the controversial "Peace Plan" proposed by former US President Donald Trump, which injected a new element of urgency into the diplomatic process. After the first round of meetings, sources familiar with the negotiations described a "positive atmosphere," fueling cautious optimism about the possibility of reaching an agreement in the short term. Trump himself, pushing for a swift conclusion, stated that Hamas had already agreed to "some very important things" and that an agreement was close.
The crux of the negotiations remains the delicate issue of the exchange: Israel, represented by a high-level delegation, insists on the release of all hostages as a prerequisite for the plan's implementation. On the other hand, Hamas is demanding in exchange not only a prolonged pause in fighting, but also the release of a significant number of Palestinian prisoners and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from some strategic areas of Gaza.
Despite diplomatic pressure, uncertainties remain high. The plan calls for Gaza to become a "deradicalized zone," raising the question of Hamas's future and its disarmament; on this point, positions remain distant, with Hamas seemingly willing to surrender only heavy weapons, retaining light weapons for self-defense. Politically, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu must manage internal pressure from his far-right allies, who openly contest any concessions that might lead to a withdrawal or, ultimately, future Palestinian statehood—an option envisioned in the post-conflict dialogue outlined in the Trump plan.
Meanwhile, the international community welcomes the resumption of negotiations with relief. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed their belief that a ceasefire and the release of the hostages are "within reach," urging the parties to seize the opportunity. The talks are set against the backdrop of continued attention to the humanitarian crisis and the international controversy sparked by the interception of the Gaza Flotilla, the expulsion of activists (including Greta Thunberg) and reports of mistreatment in detention.
World attention remains focused on Egypt, where diplomacy is grappling with complex security concerns, competing political objectives, and the pressing need to alleviate the suffering of the Gaza population.
(Associated Medias) - All rights reserved