Overview

• Delegations from Israel, Hamas and the United States are convening in Sharm el‑Sheikh for indirect negotiations focused first on securing the return of 47 remaining hostages via a hostage‑for‑prisoners exchange under the Trump plan.
• The White House has sent Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner to press for an immediate deal, with Trump insisting on a 72‑hour turnaround and warning he will tolerate no delay.
• Hamas publicly signaled it is ready to proceed at once with an exchange, and its chief negotiator Khalil al‑Hayya arrived in Egypt to participate in the talks.
• Israeli strikes on Gaza continued over the weekend despite U.S. calls for a pause, with local rescue authorities reporting nearly 60 deaths Saturday and about 20 on Sunday.
• Key gaps remain over Hamas disarmament and the scope of Israeli withdrawal as Netanyahu sends negotiators, voices hope for releases in the coming days, and Israel’s military chief vows to resume combat if talks fail.