Hamas Demands Urgent Hostage Exchange Before Cairo Talks

Hamas has called for an immediate start to a hostage-prisoner exchange with Israel ahead of critical negotiations in Egypt aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The talks, set to take place in Sharm El Sheikh on March 18, 2024, involve delegations from Hamas, the United States, and Israel, focusing on establishing a ceasefire and addressing the peace plan proposed by former President Donald Trump.

A senior Hamas official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized the group’s commitment to reaching an agreement that would facilitate a prisoner exchange in line with the current conditions on the ground. “Hamas is very keen to reach an agreement to end the war and immediately begin the prisoner exchange process,” the official stated, as reported by AFP.

According to various foreign ministers, including those from Egypt, the meetings are deemed a vital opportunity for achieving a comprehensive and sustainable ceasefire in Gaza. Both Hamas and U.S. delegations have already arrived in Cairo, while the Israeli team is expected to join on March 18.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced via social media platform X that he has instructed Minister Ron Dermer to lead the Israeli delegation to the negotiations. The delegation will include significant figures such as Brigadier-General Gal Hirsh, Coordinator of the Captives and Missing Persons, and several high-ranking officials from Israel’s intelligence agencies and military.

The White House confirmed that Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will also participate in the discussions in Cairo, focusing on the technical aspects of the hostage release and the framework for a lasting peace agreement. This meeting will initiate the first phase of Trump’s 21-point peace plan for the Gaza Strip, which aims to bring an end to the nearly two-year-long conflict.

Reports indicate that Netanyahu has already backed the ceasefire proposal, which is part of Trump’s broader peace initiative. This framework stipulates that no residents of Gaza would be displaced, contingent upon mutual agreement from both Israel and Hamas. Fighting is expected to cease immediately upon acceptance of the terms.

Cairo has confirmed its role in hosting the Hamas delegation to discuss the specific conditions surrounding the exchange of all Israeli detainees and Palestinian prisoners. The outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where tensions remain high and the need for resolution is urgent.

As the situation unfolds, international observers are closely monitoring the discussions, with hopes that they will lead to a lasting peace and stability in the region.