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Ceasefire Agreement Reached
US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel has agreed to the terms of a 60-day ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. The declaration was made via Trump's Truth Social platform, though specific details of the agreement were not disclosed.
Pressure on Hamas
Trump simultaneously increased pressure on Hamas, stating the proposal is being transmitted through Qatar and Egypt. He warned in all capital letters that Hamas should accept the deal, implying deteriorating conditions otherwise.
Israeli Cabinet Dynamics
Israel's Foreign Minister confirmed a "large majority" exists within both the cabinet and general population to finalize an agreement. However, extremist ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich have scheduled an emergency meeting to potentially sabotage the deal according to Haaretz newspaper.
Hostage Situation
Hamas currently holds approximately 50 hostages, with an estimated 20 still alive. The group maintains its demand for a permanent end to hostilities and complete Israeli withdrawal from Gaza as conditions for hostage release.
Trump's Proposed Framework
According to Trump's Middle East envoy Jared Witkoff, the initial phase would involve Hamas releasing 10 living hostages and 15 bodies of deceased captives. Remaining hostages would be freed upon reaching a permanent settlement. Trump emphasized the 60-day period should be used to negotiate a conclusive end to the conflict.
Diplomatic Engagements
Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer met with Trump administration officials in Washington yesterday. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to visit the White House next week, with Trump publicly stating Netanyahu "wants" to make a deal and predicting an agreement within days.
Netanyahu's Balancing Act
The Israeli Prime Minister faces mounting domestic pressure to secure hostages' release while maintaining his objective to "resolve the Gaza issue" by defeating Hamas. Netanyahu recently claimed Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities created opportunities for hostage negotiations.
Conflicting Reports
The Times of Israel reports contradictory assessments of Netanyahu's genuine willingness to compromise. Some sources indicate openness while others cite his statement to security cabinet members that "anyone holding a weapon must be killed."
The humanitarian situation remains catastrophic, with limited aid reaching Gaza's population. Monday marked one of the deadliest recent days after an Israeli airstrike killed dozens at Al-Baqa beach cafe in Gaza City.
