Washington - U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed during a press conference at the White House that the ongoing talks regarding the situation in the Gaza Strip are "progressing very positively," noting that his administration is working to ensure the continuation of diplomatic efforts to achieve stability in the region.

Ceasefire Agreement and Ongoing Negotiations

The agreement, which came into effect on January 19, consists of three phases and aims to calm the situation between Israel and Hamas. Thus far, it has resulted in the release of 33 Israeli hostages held in Gaza in exchange for the release of approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees from Israeli prisons.

As the first phase of the agreement, which lasts for six weeks, approaches its end, Israel announced that it would send negotiators to Cairo with the aim of negotiating an extension of the first phase or moving on to the next phase of the agreement.

International Positions and Challenges

In this context, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer reiterated his support for a two-state solution as the only path to achieving lasting peace, emphasizing the need to avoid any scenarios that would impose direct U.S. control over Gaza.

For its part, the United Nations expressed concern over the conditions faced by prisoners and detainees on both sides, calling for all parties to adhere to the agreement and respect international humanitarian law.

Background of the Conflict

This development follows the escalation that erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people in Israel, in addition to taking around 250 hostages. In response, Israel launched a widespread military operation in the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of over 48,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

Next Steps

As diplomatic efforts continue, the concerned parties are awaiting the results of the upcoming negotiations in Cairo, amid international pressure to ensure the successful implementation of the remaining phases of the ceasefire agreement.