Donald Trump has announced that Israel has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza. He is now urging Hamas to accept this deal before conditions worsen. This announcement comes as Trump prepares to host Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for discussions at the White House next week.
In his statement, Trump emphasized the importance of the ceasefire, stating that his representatives had a productive meeting with Israeli officials. He expressed hope that Hamas would agree to the terms, warning that the situation would deteriorate if they do not. He mentioned that officials from Qatar and Egypt would help finalize the proposal.
Trump has been vocal in pushing both the Israeli government and Hamas to reach a ceasefire and negotiate a hostage agreement to end the ongoing conflict. This latest development is seen as a significant moment in the long-standing war in Gaza, with potential implications for both the people of Gaza and Israeli hostages.
However, there are many questions surrounding the ceasefire. A source involved in the negotiations indicated that both sides have been firm in their positions. Hamas is reportedly seeking a ceasefire that lasts until a permanent agreement is reached, while Israel is not willing to agree to that. The source suggested that only Trump’s intervention could help break this deadlock.
Critics point out that the announcement may reflect Israel’s existing stance rather than a new proposal. Key details about the ceasefire remain unclear, such as whether Israeli troops would withdraw from Gaza and how many Palestinian prisoners might be released. The preference for a 60-day ceasefire instead of a permanent one is believed to be influenced by domestic political pressures in Israel.
Prime Minister Netanyahu faces pressure from right-wing members of his coalition who favor continuing the conflict. Agreeing to a 60-day ceasefire may allow him to appease these factions temporarily. Additionally, Trump’s call to drop Netanyahu’s corruption trial could provide political cover for the Israeli leader, allowing him to focus on the ceasefire without immediate legal concerns.
As the situation develops, the world will be watching to see if Hamas accepts the ceasefire and how it might change the dynamics of the conflict.