Israel, Hamas to Hold Gaza Truce Talks as Netanyahu Prepares to Meet Trump

Israel and Hamas are set to resume talks aimed at reaching a ceasefire in Gaza, with discussions expected to focus on halting hostilities and facilitating humanitarian aid to the besieged enclave.

The negotiations, scheduled to take place in Cairo, come amid mounting international pressure to end the ongoing conflict that has caused widespread destruction and a rising civilian death toll in Gaza. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are expected to lead the talks, pushing both sides toward a temporary truce that could open the way for longer-term negotiations.

Hamas has indicated it is open to discussions that would include lifting the blockade on Gaza and ensuring the entry of aid and reconstruction materials. Israel has signaled it will participate in talks but has maintained that its security concerns, including measures to prevent future attacks, remain a priority in any agreement.

The talks coincide with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump in New Jersey. Netanyahu is expected to discuss security concerns related to Gaza and broader regional issues during the meeting, which comes as Trump continues to position himself as a key player in Middle East discussions.

As the humanitarian situation in Gaza worsens, aid agencies have urged all parties to prioritize the protection of civilians and allow the delivery of critical supplies, warning of severe shortages of food, water, and medical care in the densely populated territory.

Analysts note that while previous ceasefire efforts have stalled, the latest push reflects growing urgency from regional actors and international stakeholders seeking to prevent further escalation.

With input from Al Jazeera