Israel, Hamas Begin Indirect Talks on Gaza War

Israel and Hamas have begun the first round of indirect talks in Egypt, aiming too end the nearly two-year-long conflict in Gaza and the West Bank. These discussions include a potential exchange of hostages and prisoners of war.

The talks started Monday. Delegations initially focused on establishing conditions for releasing all Israeli detainees in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, according to Cairo News and Al Qahera News.

The Hamas delegation, led by Khalil al-Hayya – who was the target of an Israeli assassination attempt last month – is expected to meet with mediators from Egypt and Qatar. They will then continue the “highly secretive” meeting with the Israeli delegation.

Details of the potential agreement remain unclear, but the talks represent a significant step toward a possible resolution to the ongoing conflict. Both sides face immense pressure to secure a deal, though significant obstacles remain.