Key Sticking Points in Gaza Peace Talks: An Analysis

Fri Oct 10 2025 16:07:09 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

Israel and Hamas negotiators are in talks in Egypt, exploring key disagreements in peace efforts. This article outlines critical issues affecting the negotiations.

Negotiators from Israel and Hamas have convened in Sharm El-Sheikh to discuss a possible resolution to the ongoing war, the closest either side has come to an agreement in two years. A proposed peace framework presented by Donald Trump identifies significant sticking points, including hostage release, Hamas's disarmament, the governance of Gaza, and the extent of Israeli military withdrawals. While both parties exhibit willingness, trust issues and differing visions for the future complicate the peace process.

Negotiators from Israel and Hamas are heading to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, to start indirect talks over an end to the Israel-Gaza war. It is the closest both sides have come to a deal since the war began two years ago.

However, Donald Trump's 20-point peace plan—which Israel agrees to and Hamas has partly accepted—remains just a framework with still significant sticking points for both sides.

Hostage Release Structure

Trump's plan suggests that within 72 hours of a deal being reached, all remaining hostages would be released, with 48 Israeli hostages thought to be in Gaza, and 20 believed to be alive. Trust issues are profound, as highlighted by a recent assassination attempt on Hamas's negotiating team by Israel.

Hamas Disarmament

Israel's primary goal has been the destruction of Hamas, which refuses to disarm until a Palestinian state is established. Netanyahu's ongoing commitment to this goal complicates negotiations significantly.

Future Governance of Gaza

The peace plan specifies that Hamas will not have a future role in Gaza and governance will shift to a temporary body led by Trump, with eventual management handed over to the Palestinian Authority. This stipulation provokes concerns from Israeli ultranationalists in Netanyahu's coalition.

Israeli Withdrawal

The conditions and timeline for Israel's military withdrawal from Gaza remain vague, and clarification is critical for Hamas, who demand a detailed plan for any agreement.

As the discussions unfold, both sides remain cautious, with each demanding assurances and modifications on key issues that could determine the prospect of a lasting peace in the region.