Hamas delegation arrives in Egypt for ceasefire talks with Israel

Khalil al-Hayya attends a news conference in Damascus, Syria October 19, 2022
Reuters

A delegation of Hamas officials, led by Khalil al-Hayya, arrived in Egypt on Sunday to engage in indirect negotiations with Israeli representatives.

The talks, scheduled to take place in Sharm el-Sheikh, are part of a U.S.-brokered initiative aimed at halting the nearly two-year-long conflict in Gaza and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Israeli negotiators, including Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, are set to join the discussions on Monday. The primary focus of the negotiations will be the release of 48 hostages, approximately 20 of whom are believed to be alive. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the importance of these talks, stating that the coming days are critical in determining whether Hamas is serious about reaching an agreement.

The proposed deal, part of President Donald Trump's 20-point peace plan, includes provisions for a ceasefire, the disarmament of Hamas, and the establishment of a transitional governance structure in Gaza. While Hamas has agreed in principle to the release of hostages and other elements of the plan, key issues such as disarmament remain contentious.

The international community is closely monitoring the negotiations, with hopes that a breakthrough can be achieved to end the violence and address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

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