Tue Oct 07 21:32:25 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel regarding a ceasefire in Gaza, based on a proposal by Donald Trump, have concluded a second day in Egypt. A key point of contention is the phased release of Israeli captives held by Hamas in exchange for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Hamas seeks guarantees that the war will not restart and accuses Israel of violating previous ceasefires. Despite some progress, differences remain regarding the withdrawal timeline, future governance of Gaza, and reconstruction efforts. Meanwhile, Israeli bombardments continue in Gaza, resulting in further casualties, even as international mediators work to finalize a deal.

**News Article:**

**Gaza Ceasefire Talks Continue Amidst Bombardment, Hamas Links Hostage Release to Israeli Withdrawal**

Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt – Indirect negotiations between Hamas and Israel over a Gaza ceasefire concluded their second day in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, overshadowed by ongoing Israeli military action within the Gaza Strip. The talks, centered on a proposal brokered by former US President Donald Trump, have seen Qatari and US officials, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, join efforts to secure a deal.

While Trump stated a “real chance” exists for a Gaza deal, the day opened with Palestinian factions, including Hamas, vowing continued “resistance.” A key point of disagreement lies in the disarmament of Hamas, a central demand in Trump’s plan.

A senior Hamas official, speaking anonymously to Al Jazeera, revealed the group intends to release the remaining 48 Israeli captives in stages, directly linked to the phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. According to the official, discussions focused on scheduling both the hostage releases and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Hamas has stated it requires “real guarantees” that the war will end permanently, accusing Israel of past ceasefire violations.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, marking the anniversary of the October 7th attacks that triggered the conflict, reiterated Israel’s commitment to eliminating Hamas’s rule and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat.

Despite ongoing disputes, the current talks appear to be the most promising avenue for ending the conflict. Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Majed al-Ansari said mediators are remaining flexible and developing ideas as negotiations progress.

Even if a ceasefire is achieved, significant challenges remain, including the future governance of Gaza and the financing of reconstruction. Trump’s plan proposes a transitional governance body overseeing Gaza, while Hamas insists on a Palestinian national body supervising reconstruction.

Meanwhile, Israeli military operations continue in Gaza, with reports of at least 10 Palestinians killed on Tuesday. Al Jazeera’s Hind Khoudary reported continued destruction of residential areas, highlighting the devastating impact on civilians.

ACLED, a US-based conflict monitor, reported over 11,000 air and drone strikes and 6,250 shelling attacks on Gaza throughout the war.

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