middle east - The Latremie Post

Israel and Hamas prepare for negotiations in Egypt ahead of possible Gaza ceasefire

CAIRO (AP) — Israel and Hamas prepared for indirect negotiations in Egypt on Monday, as hopes for a possible ceasefire in Gaza grew following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s statement that a hostage release could be announced this week.

Tuesday marks two years since the Hamas attack that sparked the current war. President Donald Trump welcomed Hamas’s statement accepting some elements of the U.S. peace plan, which Israel has also expressed support for.

Under the plan, Hamas would release the remaining 48 hostages—about 20 believed to be alive—within three days. In addition, Hamas would relinquish power and disarm.

The delegation led by top Israeli negotiator Ron Dermer is scheduled to leave Monday for talks in Sharm el-Sheikh, according to Netanyahu’s office. An Egyptian official, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief reporters, confirmed that the Hamas delegation had arrived and said U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff is joining the talks.

Discussions will focus on the proposed exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, Egypt’s foreign ministry said.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the situation as “the closest we’ve come to getting all of the hostages released.” Speaking on ABC’s *This Week*, he outlined two phases following Hamas’s acceptance of Trump’s framework: the release of hostages and Israel’s withdrawal in Gaza to the “yellow line,” where it stood in August.

Rubio told CBS that Hamas should release hostages as they are ready, and emphasized that bombardment needs to end to facilitate the release.

The U.S. plan also addresses Gaza’s future. In a text exchange with CNN’s Jake Tapper, Trump warned that there would be “complete obliteration” if Hamas remained in power there. Trump also texted that Netanyahu supports ending the bombing and achieving peace in Gaza but added, “soon on the rest.”

### Support for a Ceasefire Grows

Israeli government spokeswoman Shosh Badrosian told journalists that Netanyahu is in “regular contact” with Trump and stressed that the talks in Egypt “will be confined to a few days maximum.”

“I hope that we are closest to a hostage deal since the (ceasefire) deal in January,” said Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar in a speech.

Meanwhile, anxious relatives of hostages gathered near Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem, some urging Trump to continue applying pressure. Israel’s recent military offensive in Gaza City has heightened fears for the hostages’ safety.

“We cannot allow such a historic agreement to be sacrificed again,” said Michel Ilouz, father of hostage Guy Ilouz.

Across several European cities and other locations, hundreds of thousands marched in support of Palestinians. The foreign ministers of eight Muslim-majority countries issued a joint statement welcoming steps toward a possible ceasefire. They also emphasized their commitment to the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza, the unification of Gaza and the West Bank, and reaching an agreement leading to a “full Israeli withdrawal” from Gaza.

Rubio told ABC that decisions regarding a governing structure or international group to manage Gaza can occur simultaneously with the initial phase of the ceasefire.

“That’s the part that I think is going to be a little tougher to work through, but that’s what’s going to provide permanency to the end of the conflict,” he said.

### At Least 12 Killed in Gaza on Sunday

Although Trump ordered Israel to stop bombing Gaza, residents and local hospitals reported that strikes continued across the territory.

Israeli government spokeswoman Badrosian confirmed that “certain bombings have actually stopped inside of the Gaza Strip.” However, Israel’s military chief of staff, Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir, warned, “if the political effort does not succeed, we will return to fight.”

At least eight people were killed Sunday in multiple strikes in Gaza City, according to Shifa Hospital, which received the casualties. A security official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the strikes targeted Hamas militants posing a threat to Israeli troops.

Additionally, four people were shot dead near an aid distribution site in the southern city of Rafah, according to Nasser Hospital. Israel’s military denied involvement in that incident.

Doctors Without Borders confirmed the death of colleague Abed El Hameed Qaradaya, who was wounded in an attack last Thursday that killed another colleague in Gaza.

Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that the Palestinian death toll in the war reached 67,139 on Sunday, with nearly 170,000 injured. The ministry does not specify how many of those killed were civilians or combatants, but states that women and children make up about half of the dead.

The ministry is part of the Hamas-run government, and the United Nations and many independent experts consider its figures to be the most reliable estimate of wartime casualties.

Israel’s military has said it continues to dismantle Hamas infrastructure and warned residents not to return to northern Gaza.

“We’re on the brink, and we don’t know whether one will die of a strike or starvation,” said Mahmoud Hashem, a Palestinian father sheltering in a tent in Gaza City.

___

Lidman reported from Tel Aviv, Israel. Associated Press writer Andrew Wilks contributed from Istanbul.

___

Follow AP’s war coverage at [https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war](https://apnews.com/hub/israel-hamas-war)
https://fox5sandiego.com/news/ap-top-headlines/ap-israel-and-hamas-prepare-for-negotiations-in-egypt-ahead-of-possible-ceasefire/

PM Modi welcomes Donald Trump`s plan to end Gaza conflict

In an X post following former President Donald Trump’s announcement of a comprehensive plan to end the Gaza conflict, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed hope that “all concerned will come together behind President Trump’s initiative and support this effort to end conflict and secure peace.”

Trump unveiled the 20-point plan in the presence of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The proposed plan aims to end the ongoing Israel-Hamas war and establish a temporary governing board in the Gaza Strip, which would be headed by Trump and include former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

Several Western nations, including France and Italy, along with Arab and Muslim countries such as Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan, have welcomed the plan. However, it remains unclear whether Hamas will accept the terms.

If both sides agree to the proposal, the war is expected to end immediately. The plan calls for all captives held in Gaza, both alive and dead, to be returned within 72 hours, alongside the release of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, Gaza is to be governed temporarily by a Palestinian technocratic government with no role for Hamas, and Israel will not annex the Gaza Strip.

During Netanyahu’s visit to the White House on Monday, he issued a formal apology to his Qatari counterpart for a recent military strike targeting Hamas officials in Qatar. The strike had caused significant anger among Arab leaders and prompted rare criticism of Israel by the United States.

Meanwhile, the White House has officially released the details of Trump’s plan for ending the Israel-Hamas war and governing Gaza. There is currently no immediate word on whether Israel or Hamas has accepted the deal presented by the US administration.

(With inputs from Agencies)
https://www.mid-day.com/news/india-news/article/pm-modi-welcomes-donald-trumps-plan-to-end-gaza-conflict-23596478

Trump’s Gaza plan: What it means and what could change – explainer

Trump’s Gaza Plan: What It Means and What Could Change

Former President Donald Trump has proposed a comprehensive plan aimed at resolving the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The proposal outlines a freeze of current battle lines, the immediate return of all hostages, followed by the release of prisoners. Additionally, it suggests the establishment of an international Board of Peace to oversee Gaza’s transition.

According to the plan, the sequence of events begins with a cessation of hostilities, ensuring stability on the ground. The priority is the safe return of all hostages held in the region. Once this is achieved, prisoner releases would take place as part of confidence-building measures.

To facilitate a sustainable peace process, the plan calls for an international Board of Peace. This body would be responsible for managing Gaza’s political and social transition, working closely with local and regional stakeholders to ensure lasting stability.

On September 29, 2025, Israeli and US delegations met at the White House to discuss Trump’s detailed 21-point plan. The meeting marked a significant step toward exploring potential diplomatic solutions to the ongoing Gaza conflict.

Photo credit: Avi Ohayon/GPO

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF

https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/article-869017

Bagram back in play

If Afghanistan doesn’t return Bagram Airbase to those who built it—the United States of America—bad things are going to happen, warned former US President Donald Trump.

Bagram Airbase, the largest US military site in Afghanistan, has been described as the “original sin” of the evacuation in *Left Behind*, the US Senate Committee on Foreign Relations minority report released in February 2022. President Trump recently reiterated his intention to regain control of Bagram during his state visit to the UK. However, this isn’t the first time he has brought up the issue.

When the US withdrew from Afghanistan in 2021, many Republicans criticized the Biden administration for not retaining Bagram Airbase. They argued that the US could have at least kept control of this crucial facility. From this standpoint, Trump’s focus on Bagram makes sense, as it addresses a grievance among his supporters regarding the previous administration’s handling of the US exit, explains Dr. Paul Poast, Deputy Dean of Doctoral Education, Social Science Division, and Associate Professor in the Department of Political Science at the University of Chicago.

Trump has claimed that the US effectively “gave the Taliban Bagram for nothing.” It is important to recall, however, that the decision to withdraw US forces was based on an agreement struck in 2020 during Trump’s first term, with the withdrawal itself completed under President Joe Biden in 2021.

According to *Left Behind*, Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin defended the decision to vacate Bagram during testimony before the House Armed Services Committee. Austin argued that maintaining the airbase would have required putting as many as 5,000 US troops in harm’s way just to operate and defend the facility.

In March, speaking to the BBC, Trump shared that his desire to retain Bagram Airbase was not primarily about Afghanistan, but about countering China. During a press conference on his UK state visit alongside British Premier Keir Starmer, Trump emphasized the strategic importance of Bagram, saying, “It’s an hour away from where China makes its nuclear weapons.”

What Trump referred to is most likely China’s Lop Nur nuclear testing site located in the desert of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Under the Doha Agreement, however, the United States pledged not to use or threaten force against the territorial integrity or political independence of Afghanistan, nor interfere in its internal affairs.

Professor Poast notes that having access to the Bagram Airbase could be quite useful for the US. It would enhance American capabilities to conduct operations in or near China—as Trump himself indicated—and Iran. This suggests that Trump might have recognized the broader value of maintaining a strong US global military presence.

A BBC Verify investigation conducted in July found that the nuclear testing facility lies roughly 2,000 km away in northwestern China. After reviewing 30 satellite images from late 2020 through 2025, the investigation found minimal activity at the base since the Taliban’s return and uncovered no evidence of any Chinese military presence there.

Zabihullah Mujahid, the chief Taliban spokesman, addressed the issue on X (formerly Twitter), urging Washington to pursue realism and rationality rather than repeating past mistakes. He reaffirmed that the Islamic Emirate prioritizes Afghanistan’s independence and territorial integrity in all bilateral negotiations with the United States.

Mujahid emphasized that, under the Doha Agreement, the US pledged not to use force against Afghanistan’s sovereignty or interfere in its internal affairs. Therefore, the Taliban expects Washington to remain faithful to these commitments and adopt a policy grounded in realism and rationality instead of repeating failed approaches.

The regional implications of any attempt by the US to re-establish its presence at Bagram could be significant. Neighboring countries should be cautious of the potential consequences. Pakistan, which has recently risen in prominence and walks a fine geopolitical balance between the US and China, must be particularly wary of an American base in the region.

Furthermore, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia are now bound by a landmark Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement, which treats an attack on either country as an attack on both. The world is watching closely, and some Arab nations may enter into similar mutual defense deals.

The re-establishment of a US presence at Bagram Airbase could force Pakistan into a perilous geopolitical tightrope, caught between its alliances and regional security concerns. The situation remains complex, and the international community awaits developments with keen interest.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/tns/detail/1346842-bagram-back-in-play

Defiant Netanyahu says Israel ‘must finish the job’ against Hamas in Gaza

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu delivered a defiant speech at the United Nations General Assembly, insisting that Israel must “finish the job” against Hamas in Gaza despite growing international pressure to end the devastating conflict. His address came as dozens of delegates from multiple countries staged a mass walkout from the assembly hall on Friday, signaling their disapproval of Israel’s ongoing military actions.

Netanyahu criticized Western leaders, saying they may have “buckled under the pressure,” but he guaranteed that Israel would not. He also condemned recent decisions by several countries to recognize Palestinian statehood, warning that such moves would encourage terrorism against Jews and innocent people worldwide.

As Netanyahu spoke, shouts echoed throughout the hall, though the US delegation—an ardent supporter of Israel’s campaign against Hamas—remained seated. Notably, some major world powers, including the US and the UK, were represented by lower-level diplomats rather than their senior officials or UN ambassadors.

“Antisemitism dies hard. In fact, it doesn’t die at all,” Netanyahu declared, a frequent refrain he uses to accuse his critics of antisemitism while underlining Israel’s position.

Facing increasing international isolation, accusations of war crimes, and mounting pressure to halt the conflict, Netanyahu used the UN platform to push back firmly. He presented a visual aid—a map of the region titled *The Curse*—and wore a special hostage pin featuring a QR code linking to a site about the October 7 attack aimed at international public diplomacy. Members of his delegation wore identical pins.

Throughout his speech, Netanyahu praised US President Donald Trump as his chief ally in the region’s political and military landscape. He highlighted new opportunities arising from shifting dynamics in the Middle East, stating that Israel had begun security negotiations with Syria’s new government.

Back home, Israel took extraordinary measures to broadcast Netanyahu’s speech to Gaza. The Israeli military installed loudspeakers along the Israel-Gaza border to project his words into the territory. In an unprecedented move, the Prime Minister’s office announced that the Israeli army would take over mobile phones of Gaza residents and Hamas operatives to broadcast the speech live. It remains unclear to what extent this operation was successfully carried out.

Netanyahu said these efforts aimed to reach Israeli hostages still held in Gaza. At one point, he read aloud in Hebrew the names of the 20 hostages believed to be alive.

However, much of his address also targeted an international audience increasingly critical of Israel’s actions. The UN General Assembly speech is traditionally a focal point for high-profile statements, protests, and bold claims. This year, the stakes were especially high.

In recent days, several countries—including Australia, Canada, France, and the UK—have recognized Palestine as an independent state. The European Union is considering tariffs and sanctions against Israel. The General Assembly passed a nonbinding resolution calling on Israel to commit to an independent Palestinian nation, a proposal Netanyahu has categorically rejected.

The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant accusing Netanyahu of crimes against humanity, charges he denies. Meanwhile, the UN’s highest court is reviewing South Africa’s allegation that Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, which Israel vehemently disputes.

Outside the UN, hundreds of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered near the heavily secured building. Nidaa Lafi, an organizer with the Palestinian Youth Movement, stated, “Israel has chosen war against every conscientious human being in this world. The masses have come to the irreversible realization that this war was always about the complete ethnic cleansing of Palestine, about the exploitation and the stealing of Palestinian land.”

Earlier this week, at a special UN Security Council session, many nations expressed horror over the October 2023 Hamas attack that killed approximately 1,200 people in Israel, took 251 hostages, and sparked the current war. However, most also called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a flow of humanitarian aid.

Israel’s sweeping offensive has so far killed more than 65,000 Palestinians in Gaza and displaced 90% of the population, with many facing starvation. While over 150 countries recognize a Palestinian state, the US remains a staunch supporter of Israel and has not extended official recognition.

Despite US backing, former President Trump indicated limits to support, telling reporters he would not allow Israel to annex the occupied West Bank—a move some of Netanyahu’s government members have advocated. Israeli officials recently approved a controversial settlement project that critics warn could divide the West Bank and undermine prospects for a Palestinian state.

Trump and Netanyahu are scheduled to meet during Trump’s visit to the region. Speaking from the White House lawn before attending the Ryder Cup, Trump expressed optimism about achieving a deal to ease the fighting in Gaza, secure the hostages’ release, and end the war. “I think we have a deal,” he told reporters, though previous suggestions of imminent agreements have failed to materialize.

The ongoing conflict remains deeply complex, with tensions high on all sides as the international community watches closely for developments.
https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/defiant-netanyahu-says-israel-must-finish-the-job-against-hamas-in-gaza-1811414.html

‘Israel’s policy runs counter to the world, we are committed to dialogue,’ Syria’s Sharaa at UNGA

**”Israel’s Policy Runs Counter to the World, We Are Committed to Dialogue,” Says Syria’s Sharaa at UNGA**

Sharaa, who became the first Syrian leader to address the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) podium since 1967, reiterated his calls for the lifting of sanctions on Syria.

During his speech at the 80th UNGA held at the UN headquarters in New York on September 24, 2025, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa emphasized Syria’s commitment to dialogue despite opposing policies.

The president highlighted that Israel’s current policies run counter to the international community’s efforts and stressed the importance of diplomatic engagement.

*Photo Credit: REUTERS/JEENAH MOON*
https://www.jpost.com/middle-east/article-868488

Netanyahu ahead of flight to NYC: Palestine recognition is ‘disgraceful capitulation’

**Netanyahu Ahead of Flight to NYC: Palestine Recognition Is a ‘Disgraceful Capitulation’**

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to fly to New York City ahead of a crucial meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump on Monday. Netanyahu has strongly criticized recent moves to recognize Palestine, calling them a “disgraceful capitulation.”

During his trip, Netanyahu is expected to discuss key political and security issues with President Trump. He will return to Israel on Tuesday morning following the meeting.

Netanyahu also recently addressed Israel’s economy, highlighting current challenges and outlining strategies for growth.

*Photo credit: Marc Israel Sellem*

By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/benjamin-netanyahu/article-868482

Trump can only win Nobel if Gaza conflict stopped: French President Macron

**Macron Says Trump Could Win Nobel Peace Prize by Ending Israel-Gaza Conflict**

PARIS — US President Donald Trump could only win the Nobel Peace Prize if he successfully ended the ongoing conflict between Israel and the Palestinians over Gaza, French President Emmanuel Macron said on Tuesday.

Speaking in an interview with BFMTV from the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, Macron emphasized, “There is only one person who could do something in the current situation — the American president.”

Macron noted that Trump appeared mobilized and quoted the US leader’s statement to the General Assembly earlier that day: “I want peace, I will solve this conflict.”

He added, “Who wants the Nobel Peace Prize? The Nobel Peace Prize is only possible if you stop this conflict. You need to pressure the Israeli government so it stops, it stops the Gaza conflict, so we finally release the hostages” held by the Palestinian militant group Hamas.

Despite France’s recent recognition of a Palestinian state at the General Assembly—a move strongly opposed by both Trump and Israel—Macron acknowledged that Washington holds the main leverage over Israel.

“Why can he (the US president) do more than us? We do not deliver arms to Israel that allow the Gaza conflict to be waged,” Macron said.

He further highlighted that a Palestinian state “will truly be created on the day the State of Israel recognises it.”

There have been concerns that Israel might retaliate against France’s recognition by possibly closing the French consulate in Jerusalem, widely used by Palestinians, or by annexing parts of the occupied West Bank.

“We are ready. We have planned for all possible options, which means we will never remain inert. We just plan things and we will always defend France’s interests,” Macron stated, without providing more details.

The current conflict erupted on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas attack on Israel. Israel has since responded with military assaults and aid blockades on the Gaza Strip.
https://www.newindianexpress.com/world/2025/Sep/23/trump-can-only-win-nobel-if-gaza-conflict-stopped-french-president-macron

World summit to meet on two-state solution as support grows for Palestinian state

World Summit to Meet on Two-State Solution as Support Grows for Palestinian State

The US administration has warned of possible consequences for those who take measures against Israel, including against France, whose president, Emmanuel Macron, is hosting the New York summit.

Delegates reacted to the voting results during the United Nations General Assembly vote on a draft resolution that would recognize the Palestinians as qualified to become a full UN member. The vote took place in New York City, US, on May 10, 2024.

Photo credit: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters

By REUTERS

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868328

Brazil joins South Africa’s genocide case at ICJ against Israel

**Brazil Joins South Africa’s Genocide Case at ICJ Against Israel**

Brazil has officially joined South Africa’s genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). This move is largely symbolic, signifying that whatever construction emerges from the court’s eventual judgment will be equally binding upon Brazil.

Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva recently engaged in discussions that underscore the country’s growing involvement in international legal matters. During a meeting with Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez at the Planalto Palace in Brasilia on March 6, 2024, President Lula emphasized Brazil’s commitment to upholding international justice.

*Photo credit: REUTERS/Ueslei Marcelino/File Photo*

By SARAH BEN-NUN
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868287