Trump envoy Kushner meets Hamas leader to push Gaza peace plan
The rare meeting comes a week after Israel rejected Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza.
US President Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, Jared Kushner, met with Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya in Egypt to discuss the US-backed Gaza peace plan. This is believed to be the first high-level meeting between the two parties since last year's ceasefire agreement. The Board of Peace, chaired by Trump, aims to achieve peace in Gaza and beyond.
During his Egypt visit, Kushner also met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Reports suggest that in addition to discussing disarmament of Hamas and Israeli troop withdrawal, the talks may focus on humanitarian aid for Gaza. Israel has rejected the 15-point plan, insisting on complete Hamas disarmament before any Israeli withdrawal.
Eight Muslim countries have condemned Israel's stance, warning it jeopardizes Trump's peace efforts. The Gaza conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in about 1,200 Palestinian deaths and 251 Israeli hostages taken. Israel has since launched a military campaign in Gaza, leading to over 73,000 casualties and the displacement of approximately 1.9 million people, the majority of whom are Palestinian.
Written by urgent.news from BBC World's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
