President Donald Trump announced on July 1, 2025, that Israel has agreed to a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, urging Hamas to accept the deal to prevent worsening conditions. The ceasefire, mediated by Qatar and Egypt, aims to pause hostilities and facilitate negotiations for a permanent resolution. Trump emphasized that this is the final offer and warned Hamas that rejecting it would lead to deteriorating circumstances.
The proposed ceasefire includes the release of half of the hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in over 56,000 Palestinian deaths and significant displacement. Israel insists on Hamas’ disarmament, a condition Hamas refuses. Trump aims to leverage recent U.S. and Israeli military actions and a current ceasefire with Iran to push for peace in Gaza.
Despite Israel’s agreement, skepticism remains regarding Hamas’ acceptance of the deal. Hamas has not confirmed acceptance and seeks guarantees that Israel won’t unilaterally resume hostilities post-ceasefire. Historically, ceasefire efforts have failed due to both sides’ irreconcilable demands: Hamas wants a permanent end to the war and Israeli withdrawal; Israel demands Hamas’ dismantling and hostages’ release.
The announcement coincided with criticism from over 150 humanitarian groups calling for the dismantling of the troubled Israeli-U.S. aid distribution system in Gaza, following deadly violence at aid sites.
Trump is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week to further discuss the proposal.
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