Indirect ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israeli representatives commenced on Monday in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. These discussions follow Hamas's positive response to a peace proposal from U.S. President Donald Trump. However, Hamas indicated that further negotiations are necessary before a comprehensive agreement can be finalized. The group stated it would release all remaining hostages if Israel withdraws from Gaza and certain conditions are met.

Despite the ongoing talks, Israeli military operations in Gaza City and other areas of the Gaza Strip have intensified, resulting in significant casualties. According to the Gaza Health Ministry, over 67,000 Palestinians have died since Hamas's surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The ministry reported that among the deceased are 20,179 children, 10,427 women, and 4,813 elderly individuals. Currently, 25 of the 38 hospitals in Gaza are non-operational, leaving only 13 partially functioning.

U.S. officials are expected to join the indirect talks in Egypt. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to arrive on Wednesday. They have been monitoring the negotiations closely and maintaining communication with mediators. President Trump expressed optimism about the peace process, stating, "We are very close to making a deal on the Middle East that will bring peace."

Additionally, Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani will participate in the negotiations on Wednesday. His involvement is seen as crucial at this stage of the talks, which aim to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

During a press conference, Trump acknowledged that he could not specify what guarantees Israel has provided regarding the cessation of military actions after the release of hostages. He emphasized that the U.S. possesses significant influence to ensure compliance with any potential peace agreement. The first round of talks in Sharm el-Sheikh lasted four hours and is expected to continue as mediators work towards a truce and a possible exchange of hostages and prisoners.