Israel, Hamas hold talks on Trump plan to end Gaza war

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

- Agencies

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.

Trump has called for negotiations to take place swiftly towards a final deal, in what Washington hails as the closest the sides have yet come to ending the fighting. “Iam told that the first phase should be completed this week, and Iam asking everyone to MOVE FAST,” Trump said ina social media post.

Despite Trump ordering Israel to stop the bombing, Israeli forces continued to pound Gaza with airstrikes, killing at least 19 people in the last 24 hours, the territory's health ministry said.