Israeli and Hamas representatives were expected to start negotiations in Egypt on Monday in the most serious diplomatic push for a Gaza truce in recent months, as President Trump sought to advance his ambitious vision for the territory.
The two sides, who refuse to speak directly, will rely on Qatari, Egyptian and American mediators to ferry messages back and forth in an attempt to bridge significant gaps.
U.S. officials have expressed optimism that part of Mr. Trump’s plan could be achieved quickly: a Hamas release of hostages held in Gaza in exchange for Palestinians imprisoned by Israel and an Israeli withdrawal from parts of Gaza.
But even with Mr. Trump pressuring both sides to reach a deal quickly, analysts cautioned that persistent sticking points could sink the chances for a diplomatic breakthrough.
Tuesday marks two years since the war began, ignited by the Hamas-led Oct. 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The two sides have been negotiating for most of the past two years without reaching an agreement to end the war.
Israelis and Palestinians are experiencing a mix of emotions, from hope to disbelief to anxiety, over the developments of the past week, which could end the war — or lead to another disappointing dead end.
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The post Optimism on Trump’s Gaza Plan, but No Guarantees. Here’s What to Know. appeared first on New York Times.
