Gaza (Rajeev Sharma): Efforts to end the Gaza conflict gained momentum after Hamas signaled readiness to consider portions of a new ceasefire initiative, prompting U.S. President Donald Trump to call on Israel to suspend its ongoing military operations.
Hamas has reportedly agreed in principle to several elements of the proposal, including the release of hostages and the handover of administrative control to other Palestinian entities. However, officials from the group emphasized that key parts of the agreement still need to be examined in greater detail through internal discussions.
Following the development, Trump posted a message urging Israeli forces to halt their bombardment of Gaza, warning that continued military pressure could endanger hostage negotiations. He also expressed hope that this could mark a turning point toward achieving a sustainable peace.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed that his government is ready to begin implementing the first steps of the agreement. He stated that Israel remains open to coordination with the U.S., as long as national security remains safeguarded.
While the plan requires Hamas to give up weapons and political control in Gaza, the group’s recent statement did not directly mention disarmament—raising questions about whether full consensus can be reached. Discussions are ongoing, and regional mediators have confirmed that more dialogue is needed to iron out differences.
One of the proposal’s key features includes the formation of a temporary governing body in Gaza made up of independent Palestinian figures and international partners. This body would oversee civil administration and reconstruction while ensuring the region does not return to conflict.
The United States and several Arab nations are expected to support this arrangement with logistical aid and peacekeeping forces to stabilize the area. Under the current terms, Israeli forces would begin a phased withdrawal from most parts of Gaza, except for border zones that remain under review for security considerations.
The ceasefire outline also includes a large-scale prisoner exchange and provisions for humanitarian aid. In return, hostages held by Hamas would be released in stages.
While international observers cautiously welcome these signals, both sides still face internal and external pressures. Political factions in Israel remain divided over the terms, and Palestinian leadership continues to deliberate on what level of compromise is acceptable.
With diplomatic channels still active, global leaders are watching closely, hoping this moment could open the door to an end to one of the region’s most enduring conflicts.
