Hamas delegation carries “people’s pain and hopes” to Sharm talks
The head of the Hamas negotiating delegation, Khalil al-Hayya, stated that the group’s representatives arrived in Sharm el-Sheikh for “responsible and serious consultations” with the primary goal of ending the two-year-long war in Gaza.
In remarks to Al-Qahera News Channel, al-Hayya stated that the delegation arrived in Egypt “carrying the pain and hopes” of the Palestinian people, who have endured immense suffering, loss of life, and widespread destruction during what he described as an “insane two-year war” waged by the Israeli occupation.
Al-Hayya stressed that the delegation seeks a comprehensive agreement ensuring stability, freedom, and self-determination for the Palestinian people. He expressed appreciation for the “great efforts” made by Arab and Islamic countries, the international community, and U.S. President Donald Trump to bring about an end to the conflict.
According to al-Hayya, the delegation’s immediate objectives include securing a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, implementing a complete prisoner exchange, and ensuring the release of all Israeli detainees — both living and deceased — in accordance with the framework of the Trump peace plan.
He voiced regret over the continued Israeli bombardment and the worsening humanitarian situation, particularly in northern Gaza, despite Hamas’ declared readiness to implement the agreement.
Al-Hayya reaffirmed that Hamas remains committed to reaching a responsible and lasting resolution, emphasizing the need for firm guarantees from the mediating nations and the U.S. administration to prevent a recurrence of hostilities.
“The Israeli occupation cannot be trusted,” al-Hayya said, accusing Israel of reneging on previous agreements reached in late 2023 and early 2025. “We have experienced repeated violations and broken promises,” he added, calling for credible international guarantees to ensure any agreement is upheld.
He concluded by reiterating Hamas’ willingness to work positively and constructively toward ending the war, securing the withdrawal of Israeli forces, and achieving a prisoner exchange that could pave the way for lasting stability and reassurance for the Palestinian people.
