Peace Talks Resume in Egypt Two Years After Gaza Conflict Began

Peace negotiations between Israel and Hamas resumed on October 7, 2023, in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, marking the second day of talks on the two-year anniversary of the conflict’s outbreak. The discussions are centered around a plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at ending hostilities in the Gaza Strip. The plan has garnered significant international support and seeks to establish a ceasefire, release hostages, and facilitate humanitarian aid for the affected population.

On the first day of negotiations, an Egyptian official, who requested anonymity, indicated that substantial progress had been made regarding initial terms. The discussions included agreements on humanitarian measures and the release of hostages taken during the conflict. Trump expressed optimism about the potential for a “lasting deal,” emphasizing that the implications of the talks extend beyond Gaza, stating, “This is really peace in the Middle East.”

While the talks progress, key issues remain unresolved. One of the major sticking points is the disarmament of Hamas, a demand frequently reiterated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The future governance of Gaza is also under scrutiny, as the proposed plan suggests an international security force would oversee the territory following a potential Israeli military withdrawal.

The conflict initiated on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants launched a surprise attack on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, predominantly civilians, and the abduction of 251 individuals. Since then, the violence has escalated, leading to the deaths of over 67,160 Palestinians and nearly 170,000 injuries, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The ministry, which operates under the Hamas-run government, claims that more than half of the casualties are women and children, although these figures are contested by various international observers.

As the discussions unfolded, thousands of Israelis gathered at the site of the original attack to commemorate those lost. Amid this, an explosion from Gaza reverberated across the fields, resulting from a rocket launch, though no damage or injuries were reported.

U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for an immediate end to hostilities, describing the ongoing situation as a “humanitarian catastrophe.” He highlighted Trump’s proposal as a crucial opportunity to achieve a lasting resolution, asserting that a “permanent ceasefire and a credible political process” are essential to prevent further loss of life.

The negotiations are being facilitated by mediators from Qatar and Egypt, who met separately with Hamas representatives, including the group’s chief negotiator, Khalil Al-Hayya, and the Israeli delegation led by Gal Hirsch, who coordinates issues related to hostages. U.S. officials, including Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and envoy Steve Witkoff, are also participating in the talks, with a focus on expediting the process.

As part of the negotiations, there is an urgent plan to increase humanitarian aid into Gaza, where over two million Palestinians are facing severe food shortages. U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric stated that the organization is prepared to act immediately once a ceasefire is established, with thousands of metric tons of essential goods ready for distribution.

The ongoing negotiations represent a critical juncture in the quest for peace in the region. The discussions in Sharm el-Sheikh not only address immediate conflicts but also aim to establish a framework for long-term stability and governance in Gaza.