Gaza peace talks begin in Egypt as Israel marks two years since deadly attack

Gaza Peace Talks Begin in Egypt as Israel Marks Two Years Since Deadly Attack CAIRO, EGYPT - October 6, 2025 (AP) - Indirect talks between Israeli and Hamas officials began today in Egypt, aimed at implementing the Trump administration's peace plan to end the war in Gaza. The meetings come as Israel commemorates the second anniversary of a deadly attack that killed and abducted hundreds. The U.S. delegation, led by envoys from the Biden administration, is pushing for a lasting ceasefire between the two sides. "We are committed to finding a peaceful solution to this long-standing conflict," said a senior U.S. official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. "Our goal is to bring stability and security to the region." The talks in Egypt follow months of escalating violence between Israel and Hamas, which has resulted in over 67,000 deaths in Gaza, according to health officials. The humanitarian crisis has worsened, with thousands of Palestinians displaced and without access to basic necessities. "We are here today because we believe that a peaceful resolution is possible," said a Hamas official, who attended the talks but declined to be named. "We are willing to work towards a lasting ceasefire and an end to the blockade on Gaza." The Israeli government has maintained that its military actions in Gaza are necessary to protect its citizens from rocket attacks and terrorism. "Our priority remains the security of our people," said an Israeli official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Background context shows that the conflict between Israel and Hamas dates back decades, with multiple ceasefires and peace agreements failing to bring lasting stability. The Trump administration's peace plan, unveiled in 2020, aimed to address the core issues driving the conflict but was met with skepticism by both sides. The current talks in Egypt are seen as a critical step towards implementing the Trump plan, which includes measures such as the establishment of a Palestinian state and the return of refugees. However, many experts question whether the plan can be implemented given the deep-seated mistrust between Israel and Hamas. As the talks continue, both sides face significant challenges. The Israeli government must balance its security concerns with international pressure to ease the blockade on Gaza. Hamas, meanwhile, must navigate the complexities of negotiating a lasting ceasefire while maintaining its grip on power in Gaza. The outcome of these talks remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the fate of thousands of Palestinians and Israelis hangs in the balance. *Reporting by Npr.*