Peace talks begin on eve of war anniversary

BUT ISRAEL'S STRIKES DON'T STOP; 19 KILLED IN 24 HOURS

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Israeli and Hamas officials launched indirect talks yesterday at an Egyptian resort on a US-drafted peace plan to end the ruinous war in Gaza on the eve of its second anniversary.

Many uncertainties remain about the plan presented by US President Donald Trump last week, including the disarmament of the militant group - a key Israeli demand - and the future governance of Gaza. Trump has indicated an agreement on Gaza could pave the way for a Middle East peace process that could reshape the region.

All eyes on Sharm Al Sheikh

Despite Trump ordering Israel to stop the bombing, Israel continued to pound Gaza with air strikes, killing at least 19 people in the last 24 hours, the territory's Health Ministry said.

An Egyptian official said talks began at the Red Sea resort of Sharm Al Sheikh yesterday afternoon. The Israelis are led by top negotiator Ron Dermer, while Khalil Al Hayyah leads the Hamas delegation.