CAIRO, Oct 8: Israel and Hamas have engaged in peace talks for a third day at an Egyptian resort, with more senior officials from the US, Israel, and mediating nations expected to join, indicating efforts to resolve essential issues of a proposed American plan aimed at ending the conflict in Gaza.
Hamas is demanding guarantees from US President Donald Trump and mediators that Israel will cease its military operations post the release of all hostages, reflecting the dire situation which has seen significant casualties and destruction over the two-year war.
The peace plan includes crucial elements like Hamas disarmament, Israeli troop withdrawal timing, and the establishment of an international governing body in Gaza after Hamas steps down.
Prominent figures, including Qatar’s prime minister, US Mideast envoy Steve Witkoff, and Jared Kushner, as well as Israeli advisor Ron Dermer, are participating in talks, and preliminary discussions are underway.
A senior Hamas official, Taher Nounou, revealed that the group has shared a list of Palestinian prisoners it seeks to exchange for Israeli hostages.
The peace initiative outlines an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages taken during Hamas’s surprise attack on October 7, which triggered severe Israeli retaliation.
Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi expressed optimism about the negotiations, with Netanyahu indicating cautious acceptance of Trump’s plan.
Despite this, Hamas reiterated demands for a ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal without committing to disarmament or international governance, which it has historically opposed.
The negotiations face historical challenges, as past truces have collapsed over disagreements on these very terms.
Furthermore, the humanitarian toll has been devastating, with reports estimating the death of over 67,000 Palestinians and widespread destruction in Gaza.
Many displaced residents express deep despair over living conditions and the overwhelming need for aid.
The urgency for a resolution is palpable as families endure extreme hardships and loss, underscoring the need for effective negotiation and implementation of a credible peace strategy. (AP)
