Trump Pushes for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal, Israel Agrees to Terms
US President Donald Trump has stated he expects a response from the Palestinian group Hamas within 24 hours to a proposed ceasefire in Gaza. This comes amid ongoing dialogue about a hostage deal and Trump's efforts to broaden the Abraham Accords, a peace agreement between Israel and some Gulf countries negotiated during his first term.
Background
The ceasefire proposal, which could end the 20-month-long war in Gaza, is led by Trump and has been accepted by Israel. The plan envisions a 60-day truce during which all parties involved will work to end the war. Trump has urged Hamas to accept the deal, warning that it will not get better — IT WILL ONLY GET WORSE.
Israeli Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gideon Sa'ar, emphasized Israel's seriousness in reaching a deal, stating, Israel is serious in its will to reach a hostage deal and ceasefire in Gaza.
Key Developments
Trump has stated his desire for the safety and well-being of Gaza's people, who he says have been through hell.
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump called for the hostages to be returned and for the deal in Gaza to be finalized.
Israeli officials have reportedly threatened to reduce Gaza to dust
if progress is not made soon on the ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal. However, the preferred option remains the successful negotiation of a hostage deal.
Implications and Reactions
The proposal is being closely followed by the international community, with reports indicating that the Saudi Defense Minister has met Trump to discuss Iran de-escalation. Meanwhile, mediators are encouraging Israel to send negotiators to Egypt, but Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has thus far refused to do so.
The situation in Gaza remains tense. There have been numerous casualties due to Israeli attacks, with more than 90 deaths reported in the Gaza Strip between Wednesday night and Thursday morning. As negotiations for a ceasefire continue, Hamas continues to demand conditions that Israel does not accept.
Conclusion
As the sides await Hamas's response to the truce, the world watches with anticipation. Trump's personal pledge to end the war and Israel's agreement to the necessary conditions for a ceasefire offer a glimmer of hope for an end to the conflict in the Middle East. However, the situation remains volatile, and the upcoming 24 hours are crucial for the potential ceasefire.