Hamas Signals Breakthrough as Trump’s Peace Plan Gains Momentum in Egypt Talks

In a potential turning point for the protracted Israel-Hamas conflict, a senior Hamas official declared that the group's delegation is determined to surmount "all obstacles" blocking a comprehensive agreement that fulfills Gaza's deepest needs. Fawzi Barhoum emphasized key demands including a lasting ceasefire, full Israeli military withdrawal, unlimited humanitarian aid access, a comprehensive prisoner swap, and a reconstruction blueprint overseen by a technocratic Palestinian authority.

Barhoum affirmed that Hamas has approached Trump's ambitious 20-point peace proposal with utmost responsibility, signaling openness to negotiations while staunchly upholding "our steadfast national rights" for liberation, reform, and independence. This comes amid ongoing indirect talks in Egypt's Sharm el-Sheikh, where mediators from the US, Qatar, and Egypt are bridging gaps between the warring parties.

The proposal, unveiled by President Donald Trump last month, envisions an immediate halt to hostilities, phased hostage releases, and a postwar Gaza redevelopment under international oversight—dubbed the "Board of Peace." Trump has urged both sides to act swiftly, warning of escalated consequences for delays and even directing Israel to cease bombings to facilitate hostage extractions.

Also Read: Israel Mourns Two Years Since Hamas Attack Amid Ongoing Gaza War

Adding momentum, Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Atty announced that Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, will arrive tomorrow to bolster the discussions. "We're exerting every effort to forge a resolution that terminates this horrific war," Atty stated, highlighting the high stakes as delegations from Hamas—led by Khalil al-Hayya—and Israel converge.

While sticking points persist, such as Hamas's refusal to disarm prematurely and debates over withdrawal timelines, both factions have expressed tentative willingness to advance Trump's framework. Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, have prepared for initial implementations, pausing some offensives in anticipation of breakthroughs. Palestinians in Gaza, weary from relentless bombardment, voice cautious hope for an end to the violence that has claimed countless lives since the October 7, 2023, attacks.

As Witkoff's involvement injects fresh US diplomatic muscle, the world watches whether these talks can deliver the elusive peace Trump champions—or if entrenched divisions will once again derail hopes for Gaza's future.

Also Read: Israel and Hamas Resume Peace Talks as War Rages On