Israel and Hamas wrap up first round of talks on Trump’s peace plan

Mr Trump has indicated that an agreement on Gaza could pave the way for a Middle East peace process that could reshape the region

A fire erupts amid buildings destroyed during Israeli ground and air operations, following an Israeli military strike in the northern Gaza Strip, as seen from southern Israel. Picture: Leo Correa/AP

Israeli and Hamas officials launched indirect talks at an Egyptian resort on a US-drafted peace plan to end the ruinous war in Gaza on the eve of its second anniversary.

The talks, which went on for several hours, unfolded amid many questions about the plan presented by US President Donald Trump last week, including the disarmament of the militant group — a key Israeli demand — and the future governance of Gaza.