Logo

Hamas Agrees to Renew Indirect Talks Amid Qatar-Egypt Diplomatic Push

Hamas has expressed readiness to resume indirect negotiations for a truce, following renewed diplomatic efforts by Qatar and Egypt alongside the US. Aiming for a 60-day temporary ceasefire, these talks come after previous ceasefires temporarily halted violence but ultimately collapsed. The conflict, stemming from a deadly 2023 attack by Hamas, has resulted in over 54,400 deaths in Gaza, mainly civilians, and ongoing hostage concerns.

Hamas Agrees to Renew Indirect Talks Amid Qatar-Egypt Diplomatic Push

Hamas Expresses Willingness to Reinitiate Indirect Negotiations

Hamas has announced its readiness to resume indirect truce negotiations following intensified diplomatic efforts led by Qatar and Egypt. These efforts are coordinated with the United States, aiming to establish a temporary 60-day ceasefire in Gaza as a preliminary step towards a lasting peace agreement.

Diplomatic Mediation by Qatar and Egypt

Qatar and Egypt, key intermediaries in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, have recently increased their coordination with the US to overcome current negotiation obstacles. In a joint statement, both countries underscored their commitment to intensify diplomatic engagement to facilitate a breakthrough.

A Temporary Truce and Path to Peace

The proposed 60-day truce seeks to create a conducive environment for further negotiations aimed at permanent ceasefire. Previous ceasefires have temporarily halted violence and allowed significant developments, including hostage releases, but have ultimately collapsed.

Historical Context of the Conflict and Ceasefire Attempts

Last year’s two-month ceasefire enabled the release of dozens of Israeli hostages and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners but ended in March, leading to renewed and escalated Israeli military operations in Gaza.

Current Negotiation Dynamics

  • Hamas responded positively to the latest US-supported proposal but requested modifications emphasizing:
    • American guarantees
    • Scheduling of hostage releases
    • Humanitarian aid delivery logistics
    • Withdrawal timing for Israeli forces
  • The group proposed releasing 10 living hostages and the bodies of 18 others in exchange for a specific number of Palestinian prisoners.
  • The overarching objectives include a permanent ceasefire, full Israeli troop withdrawal, and uninterrupted humanitarian assistance.

Humanitarian Impact and Casualties

According to Gaza’s health ministry, more than 4,100 deaths have occurred since Israel resumed its offensive on March 18, bringing the total death toll in Gaza to over 54,400 since the conflict's escalation in October 2023. Most casualties are civilians.

Origins and Scope of the Conflict

The conflict intensified following a deadly cross-border attack by Hamas in October 2023, which resulted in 1,218 deaths—predominantly civilians—and the capture of 251 hostages. Israeli authorities report that 57 hostages remain in Gaza, with an estimated 34 deceased.

Indonesia Ready to Establish Diplomatic Ties with Israel if Palestine Recognized
Indonesia Ready to Establish Diplomatic Ties with Israel if Palestine Recognized

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto stated that Indonesia is ready to open diplomatic ties with Israel contingent on Israel’s recognition of Palestine. After meeting French President Emmanuel Macron, Indonesia reaffirmed support for a two-state solution and will co-chair an international conference in Paris to promote peace efforts. This marks a significant potential shift in Indonesia’s foreign policy.

Bishara Bahbah: Palestinian Academic Bridging Trump and Hamas Ceasefire Talks
Bishara Bahbah: Palestinian Academic Bridging Trump and Hamas Ceasefire Talks

Bishara Bahbah, a Palestinian-American scholar and activist, plays a pivotal role as a backchannel between the Trump administration and Hamas. Educated at Harvard, his efforts led to the May 2025 release of a US-Israeli hostage and ongoing negotiations for further prisoner exchanges and ceasefires in Gaza. Formerly a Democrat, he now leads Arab-American Republican initiatives, influencing Middle East peace diplomacy.

UN Nuclear Watchdog Flags Iran’s Growing Uranium Stockpile Amid US Talks
UN Nuclear Watchdog Flags Iran’s Growing Uranium Stockpile Amid US Talks

A confidential UN report reveals Iran’s uranium stockpile enriched to 60% has surged by 50%, enough for roughly 10 nuclear weapons if further refined. This escalation heightens international concern as Iran and the US engage in nuclear negotiations. The IAEA urges Tehran to fully cooperate with investigations into undeclared uranium traces, amid warnings from global powers about Iran’s nuclear ambitions.

Putin Condemns Israel's Strikes on Iran in 50-Minute Call with Trump
Putin Condemns Israel's Strikes on Iran in 50-Minute Call with Trump

During a 50-minute call, Vladimir Putin condemned Israel's military operations against Iran, warning of escalating tensions in the Middle East. Both Putin and Trump expressed willingness to resume Iran nuclear negotiations and discussed prospects for restarting peace talks in Ukraine after June 22. The leaders highlighted the importance of their diplomatic rapport in addressing these complex issues.

Egypt's Foreign Minister Cancels India Visit Amid US Strikes on Iran
Egypt's Foreign Minister Cancels India Visit Amid US Strikes on Iran

Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has called off his planned visit to India amid escalating Middle East tensions following US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. The cancellation delays critical meetings with Indian ministers focused on enhancing bilateral ties, reflecting how geopolitical volatility can disrupt diplomatic engagements.

Shashi Tharoor's Delegation to Panama: A Diplomatic Mission Against Terrorism
Shashi Tharoor's Delegation to Panama: A Diplomatic Mission Against Terrorism

On May 27, Shashi Tharoor will lead a parliamentary delegation to Panama for a three-day visit aimed at emphasizing India's zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism. The delegation will meet various stakeholders, including Panamanian leaders and the Indian diaspora, to reinforce India's commitment to combating terrorism globally. This visit follows recent tensions with Pakistan, highlighting India’s proactive approach in international diplomacy.

India and Canada Discuss Strengthening Economic Relations Amid Past Strains
India and Canada Discuss Strengthening Economic Relations Amid Past Strains

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand held a phone conversation focused on strengthening economic ties and improving relations between their countries. This dialogue comes amid efforts to mend relations strained under the previous Canadian government. Discussions highlighted the goal of deepening cooperation and advancing shared priorities, with both sides expressing optimism for future collaboration.

India and Maldives to Enhance Economic and Maritime Security Ties
India and Maldives to Enhance Economic and Maritime Security Ties

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel will meet on May 26, 2025, to examine the progress of their countries' economic and maritime security partnership. This engagement continues following previous tensions, and the visit underscores an effort to enhance bilateral relations fostering regional stability.

Hamas Agrees to Release 10 Hostages in US-Backed Ceasefire Proposal
Hamas Agrees to Release 10 Hostages in US-Backed Ceasefire Proposal

Hamas has agreed to release ten living hostages and 18 bodies under a US-mediated ceasefire proposal, offering them in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. The agreement seeks a permanent ceasefire, Israeli troop withdrawal, and facilitation of humanitarian aid in Gaza. This move follows extensive consultations by Hamas amidst ongoing deep-rooted tensions and marks a hopeful step toward ending the devastating conflict.

Hamas Agrees to Release 10 Hostages in Exchange for Palestinian Prisoners
Hamas Agrees to Release 10 Hostages in Exchange for Palestinian Prisoners

Hamas has agreed to a US-mediated ceasefire proposal involving the release of 10 living hostages and 18 bodies, in exchange for the freedom of Palestinian prisoners from Israel. The agreement seeks to establish a permanent ceasefire, Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and guarantee humanitarian aid flow. This development follows months of violent conflict resulting in significant casualties on both sides and offers a potential path toward peace despite longstanding divisions.

Israel Accepts Ceasefire Proposal from Trump Envoy, Hamas Reviewing Terms
Israel Accepts Ceasefire Proposal from Trump Envoy, Hamas Reviewing Terms

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has accepted a ceasefire proposal presented by former U.S. President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, involving the release of hostages and a 60-day ceasefire. Hamas has confirmed receipt of the proposal and is reviewing it carefully. The plan also includes resumption of UN humanitarian aid but lacks an Israeli commitment to end the broader conflict.

Hamas Reviews New US Ceasefire Proposal Amid Ongoing Israeli Raids in Gaza
Hamas Reviews New US Ceasefire Proposal Amid Ongoing Israeli Raids in Gaza

Hamas has confirmed it is studying a new ceasefire proposal from US envoy Steve Witkoff as Israeli airstrikes kill dozens in Gaza. Aid deliveries have resumed following a prolonged blockade, yet food insecurity remains critical, fueling desperation and chaotic aid distribution. The conflict, ongoing since October 2023, has resulted in over 54,000 deaths, mostly civilians, with no immediate resolution in sight.

US Envoy Rejects Hamas Ceasefire Response, Highlights Key Disagreements
US Envoy Rejects Hamas Ceasefire Response, Highlights Key Disagreements

US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff criticized Hamas’ response to a US ceasefire proposal as "totally unacceptable," highlighting that Hamas’ demands to stagger hostage release over 60 days and insistence on a permanent war end diverge from the US plan. Israel supports the envoy’s framework but accuses Hamas of resisting, complicating ceasefire talks and hostage recovery efforts.

Hamas Agrees to Release Hostages in Exchange for Palestinian Prisoners Amid US Truce Proposal
Hamas Agrees to Release Hostages in Exchange for Palestinian Prisoners Amid US Truce Proposal

Hamas has accepted a US-mediated ceasefire proposal to release 10 living hostages and 18 bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. This move follows years of violent conflict marked by high casualties and stalled negotiations. While challenges remain regarding disarmament and troop withdrawal, the agreement signifies potential progress towards reducing hostilities.

Israel to Send Delegation to Qatar for Crucial Gaza Ceasefire Talks
Israel to Send Delegation to Qatar for Crucial Gaza Ceasefire Talks

Israel will send a delegation to Qatar for talks on a ceasefire and hostage arrangements with Hamas, reflecting progress after Hamas' positive response to a US-brokered proposal. While both sides negotiate, critical issues like humanitarian aid, access points, and Israeli troop withdrawal timelines remain unsettled amid the prolonged Gaza conflict that has caused severe casualties and displacement.

Israeli Official Says Gaza Negotiations Stalled, Escalation Likely Amid Hunger Crisis
Israeli Official Says Gaza Negotiations Stalled, Escalation Likely Amid Hunger Crisis

With Gaza’s humanitarian catastrophe intensifying, an Israeli official reveals that meaningful negotiations with Hamas have broken down, making further military escalation almost unavoidable. Amid shifting regional alliances and restricted aid flows causing widespread hunger and death, the future of peace talks remains bleak. This development spotlights the urgent need for renewed diplomacy amid growing international concern.

Bangladesh Initiates Trial of Sheikh Hasina on Mass Murder Charges
Bangladesh Initiates Trial of Sheikh Hasina on Mass Murder Charges

The International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh has formally charged former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, ex-Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al Mamun with crimes against humanity, including mass murder, related to last year's deadly crackdown on student protests. The trial, conducted in absentia for Hasina and Kamal, marks a historic moment as proceedings were broadcast live nationwide. The accused face multiple charges, including inciting violence and failure to prevent atrocities. If convicted, they could face the death penalty amid ongoing scrutiny of the government's role in the events.

Poland’s Presidential Runoff Results in Near Tie Amid Deep Political Divide
Poland’s Presidential Runoff Results in Near Tie Amid Deep Political Divide

Poland's presidential runoff election is tightly contested between Rafał Trzaskowski and Karol Nawrocki, with exit polls showing a near tie. The outcome will significantly influence Poland’s political direction and its relationship with the EU amid growing social divides. Both candidates claim victory as the nation awaits final results.