Israel-Hamas War: Two Years On, Peace Talks Continue in Egypt

Two Years Since Hamas Attack

• 🗓️ Tuesday marked two years since the deadly attack by Hamas on Israel, which initiated the ongoing war.
• 💔 Memorial events were held worldwide to commemorate the 1,200 people killed and approximately 250 kidnapped during the October 7th attack.
• 🇺🇸 In Washington D.C., bipartisan legislation was announced to award the Congressional Medal of Honor to American victims of the 2023 terrorist attack.

Ongoing Peace Negotiations

• 🇪🇬 High-level peace talks continued for a second day in Egypt, focusing on a roadmap for a ceasefire.
• 🤝 Negotiators, including US envoy Steve Wickoff and Jared Kushner, are discussing the release of hostages held by Hamas.
• ⚠️ A key sticking point is Hamas's reluctance to agree to disarming or destroying their weapons and infrastructure, as well as the future governance of Gaza.

International Involvement and Future Outlook

• 🇺🇸🇨🇦 A meeting in the Oval Office between the US President and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney included discussions about Gaza.
• 🗣️ While negotiations are ongoing, there are reports of positive signs emerging from the meetings.
• ⏳ The US delegation is expected to join indirect talks, but the White House acknowledges that the peace process is likely to take time.