International Relations

Indirect Talks on U.S. Peace Plan to Commence in Egypt

Officials from Israel and Hamas are scheduled to engage in indirect discussions at a resort in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, on Mon, the eve of the second anniversary of the conflict in Gaza. The talks will focus on a U.S.-drafted peace plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict.

Key Points of the Peace Plan

• Disarmament of Hamas, a primary demand by Israel.
• Future governance of Gaza remains uncertain.

The negotiations, facilitated by the United States, aim to address the initial phase of a ceasefire. This includes a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces and the release of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention.

Delegation Details

The Israeli delegation, led by chief negotiator Ron Dermer, is expected to arrive on Mon. The Hamas delegation, headed by Khalil al-Hayyah, arrived in Egypt on Sun. Al-Hayyah recently survived an assassination attempt in Qatar.

Timeline and Expectations

The discussions are anticipated to progress swiftly, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stating they would be “confined to a few days maximum.” However, some Hamas officials have indicated that additional time may be required to locate the bodies of hostages possibly buried under rubble.

U.S. Involvement

U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to participate in the negotiations. The peace plan includes Hamas releasing the remaining 48 captives within three days, relinquishing power, and disarming.

Statements from Egyptian Leadership

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sisi expressed support for the U.S. efforts, emphasizing that a ceasefire, the return of hostages, Gaza’s reconstruction, and the beginning of a political process toward a recognized Palestinian state are steps toward lasting peace.

El-Sisi highlighted the importance of maintaining the U.S.-crafted “peace system” in the Middle East since the 1970s, which he noted has contributed to regional stability. These comments were made during a televised address commemorating the anniversary of the Oct. 6, 1973, war with Israel.