Gaza ceasefire talks live: negotiations to continue as Israelis mark two-year anniversary of 7 October attacks

The first day of Gaza talks between Hamas and mediators on Monday ended in Egypt ‘amid a positive atmosphere’, local media reportedIsrael and Hamas begin indirect talks as hopes rise of ending Gaza warWhile there are positive signs about this attempt to bring about an end to Israel’s war, there remains uncertainty over whether or not a deal can be secured and, crucially, maintained.Hamas has partially accepted Trump’s 20 point plan, which Israel has agreed to, but there are still major sticking points that need resolving, including the future governance of Gaza, the extent of Israel’s military withdrawal and Hamas’ disarmament.Negotiators have to agree which Palestinian prisoners will be released from Israeli jails. The Palestinian delegation is likely to ask for political figures, such as the Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouthi, who are widely popular in the West Bank and Gaza. Rightwing members of Netanyahu’s coalition have put pressure on to ensure such popular figures remain behind bars, Israeli media has reported. Continue reading...