Delegations from Israel and Hamas have begun indirect negotiations in Egypt that the United States hopes will bring a halt to the war in the Gaza Strip, facing contentious issues such as demands that Israel pull out of the enclave and Hamas to disarm.

Israel and Hamas have both endorsed the overall principles behind US President Donald Trump’s plan under which fighting would cease, hostages go free and aid pour into the strip, the closest they have come to an end to fighting.

The plan also has the backing of Arab and European countries.

Mr Trump has called for negotiations to take place swiftly towards a final deal.

“I am told that the first phase should be completed this week, and I am asking everyone to MOVE FAST,” Mr Trump said in a social media post. Loading Tweet

But both sides

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