Major progress reported in Gaza ceasefire talks; final deadline set for Friday: Sources

A senior Palestinian official familiar with the Gaza ceasefire negotiations revealed significant progress on several key issues, confirming that mediators have set Friday as the final deadline for talks.

The official added that US President Donald Trump is expected to personally announce the end of the war if an agreement is reached.

The statements came after an intensive round of discussions held Wednesday evening between the Palestinian delegation and Egyptian and Qatari mediators in Sharm el-Sheikh, before mediators met with the 'Israeli' delegation to obtain final responses on remaining points of contention.

Key Points of Progress and Understanding

• Prisoner Exchange:
  Progress has been made in finalizing lists for the prisoner exchange. Hamas has agreed to release all living 'Israeli' captives, while the return of bodies will be postponed until field conditions allow.
• Post-War Guarantees: Negotiators achieved progress on securing guarantees to prevent a return to hostilities following the release of captives, a central demand for the Palestinian factions.
• Withdrawal Maps: Mediators reportedly expressed understanding of the Palestinian request for clear maps detailing the withdrawal of 'Israeli' forces from densely populated urban areas before the release process begins.

Final Deadline and US Role

In a sign of determination to conclude the negotiations, mediators have informed both delegations that Friday will serve as the final deadline for reaching an agreement.

To lend weight to the deal, mediators assured the Palestinian delegation that President Trump himself will publicly declare the end of the war once the agreement is finalized, signaling the highest level of US commitment to implementing the accord.

The decision now lies with the 'Israeli' delegation, which is expected to provide its final responses to the proposed understandings.

President Trump has already announced that the Gaza talks are in an “advanced stage” and confirmed that he plans to visit Egypt later this week.