Overview

• Indirect negotiations in Sharm el‑Sheikh began this week and ran about four hours on the first day with Egypt, Qatar, and the United States mediating under President Trump’s 20‑point framework, which delegates say needs detailed clarifications.
• Hamas is demanding a ceasefire and the pullback of Israeli forces from Gaza’s residential areas before any hostage releases proceed, according to mediator-linked reporting.
• The group is also pressing to include six senior Palestinian prisoners serving long and life sentences in the exchange, a point described as a major sticking issue.
• Qatar’s foreign ministry spokesman Majid al‑Ansari stated there is a direct link between the release of Israeli hostages and a complete end to military operations in Gaza.
• Israelis are marking the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023 attacks as families push for the return of the remaining 48 captives held in Gaza, while Israel has signaled support for the U.S. plan guiding the talks.