Trump Urges Rapid Action as Israel and Hamas Begin Peace Talks

Former President Donald Trump has called for swift action in ongoing peace talks between Israel and Hamas, urging the cessation of hostilities in Gaza. His comments come as the Palestinian death toll from the conflict has reportedly reached a staggering 67,160 according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. Delegations from Israel and Hamas commenced indirect negotiations at the Red Sea resort of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, on Monday, with expectations for the first phase of discussions to conclude by the end of the week.

In a social media post, Trump stated, “I am told that the first phase should be completed this week, and I am asking everyone to MOVE FAST.” This urgency is underscored by the ongoing violence, as Gaza health authorities reported 19 fatalities from Israeli airstrikes in the past 24 hours. This toll reflects a significant portion of the daily casualties witnessed in recent weeks amidst Israel’s intensified military operations in Gaza City.

Khalil Al-Hayya, the exiled Gaza leader of Hamas, is leading the group’s delegation. He recently survived an Israeli airstrike that claimed his son’s life in Doha, Qatar, highlighting the personal stakes involved in these negotiations. Alongside him are key figures such as Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, both of whom are expected to play pivotal roles in the talks.

Inside Israel, there is a growing demand for an end to the conflict, particularly to facilitate the return of hostages. However, resistance remains from right-wing members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s cabinet, who oppose halting military actions. Negotiations are expected to address the mechanism for a potential exchange of hostages—both alive and deceased—for Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli facilities.

A significant point of contention is the Israeli demand, also reflected in Trump’s peace plan, for Hamas to disarm. A Hamas source indicated that the group insists it will not disarm unless Israel ends its occupation and recognizes the establishment of a Palestinian state.

The timing of these talks is poignant, coinciding with the upcoming second anniversary of the initial Hamas attack on Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 individuals and the taking of 251 hostages. This attack marked a pivotal moment that has shaped the current conflict, described as the deadliest day for Jews since the Holocaust.

The complexities surrounding achieving a ceasefire continue to loom large over the negotiations. While both sides are seeking clarity on critical issues, the path to a resolution remains fraught with historical grievances and political challenges. As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough that could bring an end to the violence and lasting peace to the region.