Trump Confirms Israel’s Nod To 60-Day Gaza Ceasefire, Raising Hopes For Peace

Donald Trump announcement on Gaza Ceasefire

US President Donald Trump announced that Israel has agreed to the key conditions needed for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, raising hope among Palestinians desperate for peace. Trump shared the news on social media on Tuesday, calling it the result of a “long and productive” meeting between his team and Israeli officials.

Trump said that a final proposal would now be handed over to Hamas by mediators Qatar and Egypt.

In Gaza, where violence has caused immense suffering, many residents said even a short break from the fighting would bring much-needed relief.

“I hope it works this time. Even a two-month pause could save thousands of innocent lives,” said Kamal, a resident of Gaza City.

Pressure is increasing on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to agree to a long-term ceasefire, although some members of his right-wing coalition strongly oppose it.

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar said most of the government supports a deal that would lead to the release of hostages still held by Hamas. Around 50 hostages remain in Gaza, but only about 20 are believed to still be alive.

“If there is a chance to bring them back – we must take it!” Saar wrote on social media.

For many in Gaza, now in the 21st month of war, any news of a ceasefire brings hope. Most people have been displaced multiple times and are struggling to survive.

“We are living through the hardest days,” said Tamer Al-Burai, a local businessman. “People want peace, food, and dignity. This war has destroyed everything.”

Neither Israel nor Hamas officially responded to Trump’s latest comments. Trump did not reveal the details of the conditions Israel agreed to.

The US president appears to be using recent Israeli and American strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities – and a newly reached ceasefire in that conflict – to increase pressure on Hamas, which is supported by Iran. Israeli leaders believe Iran’s recent military setback may open doors for regional peace talks.

A Hamas official declined to comment immediately. However, a source close to the group said they would review the proposal and consult with mediators before giving a response.

Back in May, Hamas had asked for changes to a previous US-backed ceasefire plan. That proposal included a 60-day truce, the release of half the hostages held by Hamas in return for Palestinian prisoners and bodies, and then the release of remaining hostages as part of a full end to the war. Trump’s envoy at the time had rejected Hamas’s demands.

Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid said on Wednesday that his party would support a ceasefire deal even if Netanyahu’s coalition partners opposed it. He promised not to back any motion that could bring down the government over the agreement.

Meanwhile, Gaza’s health ministry said at least 20 Palestinians were killed on Wednesday in separate Israeli attacks in the north and south. The Israeli army also issued more evacuation orders.

In response to questions about the casualties, the Israeli military said it was focused on destroying Hamas’ military strength while trying to avoid civilian harm, but did not confirm the specific incidents.

The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas fighters entered Israel, killing about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and taking 251 hostages. That day marked the deadliest attack in Israel’s history.

Since then, Israel’s military campaign has killed over 56,000 Palestinians, mostly civilians, according to Gaza’s health ministry. Almost the entire population of Gaza – 2.3 million people – has been displaced, and the region is facing a severe humanitarian crisis. The UN says more than 80% of Gaza is now either under Israeli military control or evacuation orders.

Highlights:

U.S. President Donald Trump says Israel has agreed to terms for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza.
The proposal is set to be delivered to Hamas by Qatar and Egypt.
Gazans express cautious hope for relief after 21 months of war.
Over 56,000 Palestinians have died in the conflict, most of them civilians.
Israeli Foreign Minister and opposition leader show support for a potential deal.
Hamas expected to review and respond to the ceasefire offer soon.
Israel continues strikes; at least 20 Palestinians killed on Wednesday.
Over 80% of Gaza under evacuation or Israeli military control.

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