Cairo: Efforts to end the prolonged Gaza conflict gained momentum on Monday as indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas began in the Egyptian resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh. The talks, hosted by Egypt with U.S., Qatari, and UN mediation, aim to secure a long-term ceasefire, the release of hostages, and a roadmap for the future of Gaza.
The discussions mark the first face-to-face diplomatic engagement since the outbreak of renewed hostilities last year. According to diplomatic sources, the initial phase of the proposed deal focuses on achieving a stable ceasefire, facilitating humanitarian aid, and exchanging hostages and detainees.
Under the proposed framework, Hamas would release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, while Israel would allow for the release of a number of Palestinian detainees held in its prisons. The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) has offered to oversee the exchange process and ensure the safe transfer of humanitarian aid inside Gaza.
Israel, which continues to prioritize the safety of its citizens and the complete eradication of terrorism in the region, has maintained limited military operations aimed at preventing renewed attacks. Officials in Jerusalem have reiterated that any peace arrangement must ensure Israel’s long-term security and prevent future threats emanating from Gaza.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, addressing his Cabinet before the talks, expressed cautious optimism. “We are committed to bringing every Israeli hostage home and restoring peace to our borders. This process will not be easy, but Israel will approach it responsibly and firmly,” he said.
The U.S. administration, led by President Donald Trump, has been closely coordinating with Egypt and Qatar to facilitate progress. Trump expressed confidence that an agreement could be reached soon, saying, “I’m pretty sure there will be a Gaza deal. It’s a tough situation, but the world wants peace, and we’re helping make it happen.”
German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, who is monitoring the talks, described the ongoing discussions as the “most promising diplomatic opportunity in years.” He emphasized that continued dialogue was the only sustainable path to end hostilities and rebuild trust between the parties.
While both sides have signaled willingness to engage constructively, substantial differences remain. Israel insists that any agreement must include a clear mechanism for Hamas’s disarmament and firm security guarantees to prevent cross-border attacks. In contrast, Hamas seeks assurances of an eventual Israeli withdrawal from Gaza and the reopening of key crossings for trade and humanitarian supplies.
Mediators have acknowledged that progress will take time. “We are realistic about the challenges,” said an Egyptian official involved in the process. “But both sides have shown readiness to talk, and that’s a significant step forward.”
As negotiations proceed, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains tense. Relief agencies continue to deliver aid with Israeli coordination, focusing on medical assistance, water supply, and shelter for displaced families. Israeli authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring that humanitarian needs are met while maintaining security oversight to prevent the diversion of aid materials for militant purposes.
Diplomats close to the talks describe the current environment as cautiously hopeful. The presence of multiple mediators, coupled with international support and the desire to de-escalate, has created a rare opportunity to pave the way for a durable peace.
While significant political and logistical challenges lie ahead, the opening of these talks is widely viewed as a meaningful step toward stabilizing the region and ending years of suffering for both Israelis and Gazans.
If successful, the Sharm el-Sheikh negotiations could mark the most significant diplomatic breakthrough in the Middle East in over a decade — one that balances humanitarian needs with lasting security guarantees for Israel and its people.