Hamas has expressed optimism over the ongoing ceasefire negotiations with Israel, describing the latest discussions as showing “positivity and responsibility” toward achieving progress and finalising an agreement in the Gaza Strip.
Taher al-Nunu, media adviser to the head of Hamas’s political bureau, stated this on Wednesday in a press release.
According to him, mediators were making significant efforts to overcome obstacles hindering the ceasefire process, while a general sense of optimism prevailed among participants.
The current round of indirect talks between Hamas and Israel, mediated by Egypt and Qatar, began on Monday in the Egyptian city of Sharm el-Sheikh.
Al-Nunu explained that discussions centred on mechanisms for ending hostilities, ensuring the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and facilitating a prisoner exchange between both sides.
“The lists of prisoners required to be released were exchanged today according to the agreed criteria and numbers. Indirect negotiations are continuing with the participation of all parties and mediators,” he said.
The talks are reportedly based on a 20-point framework unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump after his meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in late September. The proposal includes a phased ceasefire-for-hostages exchange, Israeli withdrawal, demilitarisation of Gaza, and international supervision of post-conflict reconstruction and governance, excluding Hamas from future administrative control.
(NAN)