Sharm El-Sheikh (Web Desk): The initial round of negotiations aimed at ending the two-year conflict in Gaza has concluded in the Egyptian coastal city of Sharm El-Sheikh. Talks involved representatives from Hamas, Israel, the United States, and mediating countries, with the next phase set to resume today.
According to sources, the Hamas delegation was led by senior leader Khalil al-Hayya, while the U.S. was represented by Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump’s son-in-law and advisor Jared Kushner. Qatar and Egypt acted as mediators during the discussions.
During the talks, Hamas presented its conditions for a ceasefire, demanding a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of hostages, accompanied by a clear timeline. The group also called for the release of six key Palestinian prisoners and the delivery of large-scale humanitarian aid to Gaza. Hamas emphasized that Israel must fully honor the agreement following the release of hostages.
Israeli security sources indicated that Israel is currently focused solely on the release of hostages and has granted Hamas a few days to meet this objective. Further withdrawal will depend on terms agreed upon with the resistance group. Israel is reportedly not willing to pull troops back beyond the "yellow line" but intends to establish a strategic buffer zone.
White House spokesperson Caroline Levitt confirmed that President Trump is eager for the swift release of hostages to enable the next phase of negotiations. She added that discussions continue over lists of hostages and political prisoners between the parties.
Meanwhile, President Trump has instructed the negotiating team to expedite progress to bring an end to the ongoing war in Gaza. He warned that if Hamas refuses to relinquish control of Gaza, it will be completely dismantled.
Sources say that the upcoming second round of talks will focus on further details, but the situation remains fragile and uncertain.