Israel-Hamas indirect talks: Positive developments in Egypt, Trump peace plan discussed Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, have shown positive signs, where talks are underway on the release of hostages, military withdrawal, and a long-term ceasefire based on US President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan. The talks, which began under Qatari and Egyptian mediation, are raising hopes ahead of the second annual commemoration of the Gaza war, despite ongoing Israeli military bombardment and Hamas’ insistence on Hamas’ strategic demands. Details of the talks The indirect talks, which began on October 6, 2025, are being held under Egyptian and Qatari mediation, with the Israeli delegation led by Rom Dermer and Hamas’s Khalil al-Haya. US envoys Stephen Witkoff and Jared Kushner are also participating. Four hours of talks on the first day reached agreement on the immediate release of hostages, the exchange of Palestinian prisoners, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, the first phase of Trump's plan. A Palestinian official said: "The atmosphere of the talks is positive, and the technical “The details are being worked out.” Hamas has partially agreed to the plan, which includes its surrender of power and withdrawal from the Gaza government, but insists on a complete Israeli withdrawal and guarantees of a Palestinian state. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said: “We are determined to release the hostages and destroy Hamas.” Trump said: “The chances are very good, it will be a lasting peace.” Gaza situation During the talks, the Israeli army continued to bomb Gaza, killing 24 Palestinians. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, more than 42,000 Palestinians have been killed in the war that began with a Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. The talks are taking place in Sharm el-Sheikh, where American, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators are holding shuttle meetings between the two sides. “These talks are a ray of hope for the people of Gaza, but Israeli attacks are clouding that hope.” — Palestinian official References BBC, Al Jazeera, New York Times, NBC News, Associated Press, X-Post