Hamas and Israel are holding indirect peace talks in Egypt’s Sharm El Sheikh to discuss a possible ceasefire in Gaza. Both sides exchanged lists of prisoners and hostages as part of the early steps. Hamas says it is showing a positive attitude in hopes of reaching a long-term agreement. However, the group insists that past experiences make Israel an unreliable partner. Therefore, they want international guarantees before signing any deal.
Khalil Al-Hayya, Hamas’s lead negotiator, says they are ready for a peace deal. But he made it clear that they need firm guarantees. He specifically called on U.S. President Donald Trump and other global sponsors to promise that the war will end permanently. Hamas believes such support is necessary to ensure Israel does not break the agreement again. Without these guarantees, the group says, the deal would be meaningless.
Read more: Hamas outlines six demands amid Gaza peace talks
The talks are being watched closely by several countries. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed that Turkey supports Trump’s peace efforts. He also said that Gaza must remain part of Palestine. This statement reinforces Hamas’s demand that Gaza should not be treated separately. Erdoğan’s support adds weight to the international backing Hamas seeks for a lasting truce.
In today’s round of talks, top global mediators are expected to join. Qatar’s Prime Minister, American envoys Jared Kushner and Steve Wictor, and Turkish intelligence chief İbrahim Kalın are participating. Their presence signals serious international interest in ending the Gaza war. These diplomats will try to bridge gaps between Hamas and Israel to move the process forward.
Read more: Prisoner List Exchange Marks Progress in Gaza Talks
Although negotiations are progressing, major hurdles remain. Hamas’s deep distrust of Israel and demand for ironclad guarantees show how fragile the talks are. Still, both sides appear to be engaging seriously. If global powers step in and build trust, a permanent ceasefire in Gaza may finally become possible.