Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt — Hope, skepticism, and political tension are all converging in the Egyptian resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh this week, as more than 20 world leaders arrive for what’s being called the “Summit for Peace.”
The high-profile gathering aims to find a path toward long-term peace and stability in Gaza — a region scarred by years of conflict and humanitarian crisis.
A Global Push for Stability
The summit is being co-hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, following a recently brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
For Egypt, this is more than just a diplomatic event — it’s a chance to reaffirm its central role as a mediator in Middle Eastern affairs. For other nations, it’s a test of whether peace talks can truly take hold when the wounds of war are still fresh.
Who’s in the Room
Among those attending are UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
India is represented by Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh, after Prime Minister Narendra Modi declined his invitation.
Meanwhile, Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is also expected to take part.
Notably absent, however, is Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who cited a scheduling conflict due to a Jewish holiday. His absence has already sparked speculation about Israel’s commitment to any outcomes from the summit.
What’s on the Agenda
The talks are expected to focus on three urgent goals:
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Securing and maintaining the fragile ceasefire.
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Coordinating humanitarian aid and rebuilding Gaza’s devastated infrastructure.
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Discussing security guarantees and future governance for the region.
Diplomatic sources say leaders will also explore a framework for Gaza’s reconstruction, with possible financial contributions from Gulf nations and Western allies.
Early Tensions
The summit has already seen tragedy and tension. Three Qatari diplomats were killed in a car crash while traveling to the venue on Sunday. Their deaths have cast a somber tone over the proceedings.
Iran declined its invitation, and some leaders, including Netanyahu, have opted out — prompting criticism that peace talks without both sides of the conflict at the table could struggle to produce tangible results.
The Stakes
The gathering is being closely watched around the world. Supporters see it as a much-needed diplomatic restart after years of bloodshed. Critics fear it may end up as another symbolic meeting with few concrete outcomes.
“Everyone wants peace,” one European diplomat said before entering the talks, “but peace requires trust — and right now, that’s what’s missing.”
Looking Ahead
While expectations remain cautious, officials hope the summit will at least pave the way for continued dialogue — and perhaps a joint statement outlining next steps for Gaza’s recovery and regional cooperation.
For now, all eyes are on Sharm el-Sheikh — a city that has hosted countless international gatherings but rarely one carrying stakes this high.
