Indirect talks aimed at reaching a final agreement on a US peace plan to end the war in Gaza have begun in the Egyptian city of Sharm El-Sheikh.
Palestinian and Egyptian officials have told the BBC that the sessions are focused on creating the field conditions for a possible exchange that would see the release of all Israeli hostages in return for a number of Palestinian prisoners.
Hamas has said it agrees to the peace plan proposals in part, but has not responded to several key demands - including its disarmament and future role in Gaza.
Israel's prime minister stated that he hopes to announce the release of hostages in the coming days.
The talks, which involve Egyptian and Qatari officials holding shuttle meetings with delegations from both Israel and Hamas, come just before the second anniversary of the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and hostage situations.
Since the military offensive began, over 67,000 people have reportedly died in Gaza.
US special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are among those attending the discussions, which are considered crucial for the conflict's resolution.
The 20-point peace plan proposed by Trump includes an immediate ceasefire and the release of hostages in exchange for detained Gazans, with plans for aid to Gaza post-agreement.
However, the plan's acceptance by Hamas remains ambiguous, particularly regarding its disarmament, leading to varied interpretations of their response.
The current hostilities and military operations in Gaza have prompted concerns about humanitarian conditions for civilians in the area.
