Trump Nears Gaza Ceasefire Announcement as Part of Hostage Deal

See - Sada Elbalad

26-05-2025

Ahmed Emam
U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly close to announcing a ceasefire in Gaza within the coming days, as part of a broader agreement that includes the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, according to sources familiar with the matter.
The potential breakthrough comes amid growing speculation that Trump, who has signaled interest in resolving the ongoing war in Gaza, is actively engaged in backchannel diplomacy to end the conflict. 'We want to see if we can stop the fighting,' Trump told reporters recently, adding, 'We've spoken to Israel and we're trying to bring this entire situation to an end as soon as possible.'
Sources within Trump's circle indicate he has been pressuring Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to halt the war, expressing frustration over its continuation. As part of these efforts, the Trump team has reportedly opened a communication channel with Hamas via Palestinian-American businessman Bishara Bahbah.
According to diplomatic insiders, the United States is now spearheading a new initiative through special envoy Steve Witkoff, aiming to restart indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
The proposed framework, known informally as the "Witkoff Plan," would involve a phased deal beginning with the release of a portion of the hostages, followed by a gradual end to the war and the release of all detainees held by Hamas.
Efforts are underway to create favorable conditions for talks, with U.S. officials asking Israel to delay further ground escalation and to allow broader access for humanitarian aid into Gaza. Nevertheless, Israeli military operations in the strip continue daily, drawing criticism from international human rights organizations.
The Biden administration, although largely silent on the Trump-led efforts, is said to support a diplomatic resolution and is closely monitoring developments. Sources told *Israel Hayom* that Washington is committed to the diplomatic track, believing that the mounting pressure on Hamas could create a rare political opening for compromise.
Despite the diplomatic momentum, Hamas reportedly continues to reject Israel's conditions for ending the war. These include the release of all hostages—living and deceased—the disarmament of Hamas, the departure of its leadership from Gaza, and the complete removal of the movement from any future role in governing the enclave.
As negotiations progress, observers note that Trump's re-engagement in Middle East diplomacy could mark a significant shift in the dynamics of the Gaza conflict, particularly as the U.S. enters a highly charged election season.
read more
Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685
NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria
Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO
Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided
News
Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks
News
Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank
News
Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region
News
One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid
News
Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers
News
Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia
News
Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content
Arts & Culture
Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized
Sports
Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer
Sports
Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
News
Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies
Arts & Culture
New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
Business
Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War
Arts & Culture
Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies