Trump Urges Mediators to "Move Fast" as Key Gaza Peace Talks Set to Begin
In a bid to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza, US President Donald Trump has urged mediators to expedite indirect peace talks between Hamas and Israel. The negotiations, set to commence on Monday in Egypt, come after Hamas agreed to certain aspects of a 20-point US peace plan.
Trump took to social media to express his optimism about the talks' prospects, stating that they had been "very successful" thus far. He emphasized the importance of swift action, tweeting: "I am told the first phase should be completed this week, and I am asking everyone to move fast." The president also warned that time is of the essence, cautioning that massive bloodshed will follow if a resolution is not reached.
Speaking earlier in the day, Trump expressed confidence that hostages would soon be released. When asked about flexibility over his peace plan, he replied: "We don't need flexibility because everybody has pretty much agreed to it."
The US president's comments come as mediators prepare for indirect talks between Hamas and Israel. The negotiations will focus on key issues, including the disarmament of Hamas and its future role in Gaza's governance.
Hamas' response to the 20-point peace plan did not address these critical demands. Instead, the group emphasized its commitment to certain aspects of the proposal, such as freeing hostages and transferring governance to Palestinian technocrats.
The conflict in Gaza has resulted in significant human suffering, with thousands displaced and numerous casualties reported. The international community has been working tirelessly to broker a peaceful resolution, with Egypt playing a key role in facilitating negotiations.
Dr. Mona El-Kurd, a Palestinian scholar and advocate for peace, expressed cautious optimism about the talks' prospects. "While we welcome any efforts towards peace, it's essential that Hamas' concerns are addressed," she said. "Disarmament and governance are crucial issues that cannot be ignored."
In contrast, Israeli officials have been more skeptical about the negotiations. "We will not compromise on our security needs," said an Israeli government spokesperson, who wished to remain anonymous. "Any agreement must prioritize Israel's safety and well-being."
As the talks begin in Egypt, attention is focused on the potential for a breakthrough. With Trump urging mediators to expedite their efforts, hopes are high that a resolution can be reached soon.
Background:
The conflict in Gaza has been ongoing since 2007, with Hamas and Israel engaging in several rounds of violence. The US peace plan, unveiled earlier this year, aims to address key issues, including disarmament, governance, and economic development.
Next Developments:
The indirect talks between Hamas and Israel are set to commence on Monday in Egypt. Mediators will focus on key issues, including disarmament and governance. With Trump urging mediators to expedite their efforts, hopes are high that a resolution can be reached soon.
Sources:
Rushdi Abualouf, Gaza correspondent
Mallory Moench, Watch: Hostages could be freed 'very soon', says Trump
*Reporting by Bbc.*