On October 6, 2025, Israel and Hamas are gearing up for crucial negotiations in Egypt, as optimism grows regarding a potential ceasefire. This development follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s indication that a deal pertaining to the release of hostages could be announced this week.
The Israeli delegation, spearheaded by chief negotiator Ron Dermer, is set to depart for Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday, according to an official statement from Netanyahu’s office. Meanwhile, an Egyptian official confirmed that the Hamas delegation has already arrived in the region. The official, speaking on the condition of anonymity due to restrictions on discussing the matter, also noted the participation of US special envoy Steve Witkoff in the negotiations.
Focus of the negotiations
The discussions are anticipated to center on a proposed exchange involving all remaining hostages in return for thousands of Palestinian prisoners currently held in Israeli facilities. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has praised this initiative, describing it as “the closest we’ve come to getting all of the hostages released.”
Tuesday marks the second anniversary of the devastating attacks carried out by Hamas militants on southern Israel, which resulted in the deaths of 1,139 individuals, primarily civilians, and saw 250 hostages taken. These events triggered a fierce military response from Israel, leading to significant casualties in Gaza.
Current situation and statements
As of now, approximately 48 hostages remain in Hamas’s custody, with around 20 believed to still be alive. Recently, Hamas expressed its willingness to release all hostages immediately, in line with US President Donald Trump’s peace initiative. However, they also mentioned that other conditions require “further consultation.”
Trump’s “21-point peace plan” for Gaza, which was introduced last week alongside Netanyahu, includes various reforms aimed at ceasing hostilities in the besieged territory. Key elements of the plan involve the release of hostages and the disbandment and disarmament of Hamas.
Furthermore, the plan suggests the establishment of a provisional oversight government in Gaza, to be co-led by Trump and former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair. It also proposes that Hamas members who choose to disarm would be allowed to remain in Gaza and receive amnesty, while those opposed would be granted safe passage to exit the territory.
Speaking to Euronews, Netanyahu criticized Hamas’s partial endorsement of the Trump plan, insisting that complete acceptance of all terms is essential for peace to be achieved. In contrast, Trump’s administration views Hamas’s recent statement as a positive development. In a post on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump remarked, “Based on the statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for a lasting peace.” He emphasized the urgency for Israel to halt its military operations in Gaza to facilitate the safe and swift release of the hostages.
“Based on the statement just issued by Hamas, I believe they are ready for a lasting peace,” wrote Trump.