Gaza Ceasefire Talks in Cairo: Hamas and Israel Prepare for Negotiations
A high-stakes round of negotiations aimed at achieving a Gaza ceasefire and a hostage release is set to take place in Cairo. Delegations from Hamas and Israel, along with representatives from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, are converging to discuss the terms of a potential agreement. The talks come as US President Donald Trump has dispatched envoys to help broker a deal.
Key Players and Objectives
Khalil al-Hayya, Hamas’ leader in the Gaza Strip, will lead the group's delegation. The U.S. is represented by Steve Witkoff, special envoy for the Middle East, and Jared Kushner, President Trump's son-in-law. Discussions will center on a mechanism for releasing hostages, particularly those who are alive, and Hamas's demands for an Israeli withdrawal from certain areas of the Gaza Strip, a halt to unmanned aerial vehicle activity, and an end to the fighting.
Hamas' Demands and Prisoner Exchange
Hamas is seeking the release of 250 security prisoners, including Fatah senior official Marwan Barghouti, as part of any agreement. The negotiations are expected to address the terms of the prisoner release, including the potential for disputes over Israel's right of choice. Control of the Gaza Strip after the war is not expected to be a major topic at this stage.
Trump's Peace Plan and Withdrawal Map
President Trump's peace plan includes a proposed withdrawal map for Israeli forces in Gaza. The map has reportedly drawn objections from Hamas, who find the proposed withdrawal lines unsatisfactory. The plan also outlines a phased pullback, with the IDF initially remaining within a security perimeter until it's assured there's no terror threat from the Gaza Strip.
Israeli Delegation and Netanyahu's Stance
The Israeli delegation to Cairo is headed by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, a close ally of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Other members include deputy Shin Bet chief M., Hostages and Missing Persons Coordinator Maj. Gen. (res.) Gal Hirsch, and head of intelligence efforts on hostages and missing persons Maj. Gen. (res.) Nitzan Alon. Netanyahu has stated that Israel is on the verge of a "great achievement" regarding the return of hostages, while also emphasizing the military's continued presence in the Gaza Strip.
Negotiations and Potential Outcomes
Both Israel and the U.S. aim to conclude negotiations within days, while also leaving open the possibility of resuming fighting. Netanyahu stated that Hamas will be disarmed either through diplomatic channels as per the Trump Plan or through military action. Finance Minister Ze’ev Elkin said Hamas is displeased with Trump’s plan but will not openly reject it.
