WASHINGTON DC: Indirect talks on a US-backed peace plan to end the Gaza war are set to continue Tuesday in Sharm El-Sheikh.

Palestinian and Egyptian officials say sessions aim to create conditions for a possible exchange of Israeli hostages for Palestinian prisoners.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hopes to announce releases “in the coming days.”

US President Donald Trump expressed optimism, calling it a “really good chance” for a lasting deal.

Hamas has accepted parts of the plan but has not responded to demands on disarmament or future governance in Gaza.

Tuesday marks the second anniversary of the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, which killed about 1,200 and took 251 hostages.

Israeli operations since then have killed 67,160 in Gaza, including 18,000 children.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres called the plan an opportunity to end the conflict.

UK PM Keir Starmer expressed support for the US initiative and peace for Israeli and Palestinian children.

A senior Israeli source said initial discussions will focus on hostages, giving Hamas a few days to complete this phase.