The second day of indirect ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, commenced on Tuesday in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. According to an Egyptian source, the discussions focused on critical issues such as a hostage-prisoner exchange, humanitarian aid access to Gaza, and the future governance of the Gaza Strip. Hamas reiterated its demand for US and Israeli guarantees of a permanent cessation of hostilities, which remains the primary obstacle in the talks. The negotiations are based on the 20-point peace plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, which Hamas has conditionally accepted. The first phase of the plan includes an immediate ceasefire and the release of all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased. Israel estimates that 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 still alive. Hamas stated that it would only begin collecting hostages once Israel’s military operations cease, citing safety concerns for its operatives. Additionally, Hamas insisted on the release of prominent Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti as part of the prisoner exchange. Regarding Gaza’s future governance, Hamas rejected the deployment of foreign forces but expressed openness to Arab forces coordinating with the Palestinian Authority. The group also opposed the appointment of former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to lead post-war governance. The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties and a severe humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with over 67,000 Palestinian deaths reported.
Gaza ceasefire talks enter 2nd day in Egypt as Hamas demands permanent end to war
