Trump Urges Rapid Progress in Egypt-Hosted Gaza Hostage Exchange Talks

As the second anniversary of the Hamas attack on Israel is commemorated, hopes for ending the devastating Gaza war grow amid ongoing indirect peace talks in Egypt between Hamas and Israel. US President Donald Trump has praised the progress made in negotiations, urging all parties to "move fast" to finalize a peace plan aimed at releasing hostages and ending hostilities. The talks, involving US and Qatari representatives, focus on implementing Trump's 20-point peace proposal, with the goal of exchanging Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners and transferring Gaza's administration to Palestinian technocrats. Despite Trump's call to halt Israeli airstrikes to facilitate the peace process, Israeli bombings have continued, causing significant Palestinian casualties. Trump has warned that time is critical, cautioning that delays could lead to massive bloodshed, and emphasized the urgency by warning of severe consequences for Hamas if it refuses to relinquish control. Both sides appear committed to advancing the negotiations rapidly, with hopes that a ceasefire and comprehensive deal can be reached soon to bring long-sought peace to the region.