Analysis: Gaza Truce Deal a Critical Moment, but Challenges Remain
For Donald Trump, a ceasefire agreement—or even a sustained pause in hostilities between Israel and Hamas—could mark one of the most significant diplomatic milestones of his presidency.
While the specifics of a deal to halt the war in Gaza are still unclear, the expressed intentions of both Israel and Hamas carry weight. With backing from Arab states and other regional actors, this represents the most promising opportunity for peace since a previous truce fell apart in March, plunging Gaza back into relentless conflict.
Discussions about a potential agreement have surfaced since then, but none have come as close as this one. The initial phase of the plan appears simple: the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces. However, recovering all hostages and coordinating an Israeli pullout may prove difficult.
Much remains unresolved. The proposed 20-point plan from the Trump administration seeks to balance establishing ceasefire conditions with securing a lasting resolution. Key issues—such as Hamas's future role, possible disarmament, and Israel’s long-term plans for Gaza—still need negotiation.
This situation is not new, yet the current moment is pivotal.
Families of Israeli hostages in Gaza gathered at Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square following the announcement.
“President Trump, we are grateful. Without his efforts, our children might not be coming home,” said Hatan Angrest, whose son Matan is among those held captive.
A Hamas representative stated that surviving hostages would be released within 72 hours of Israel’s approval of the deal, according to Reuters. However, retrieving the bodies of deceased hostages—estimated at around 28—could take longer due to the destruction in Gaza.
Trump mentioned in a Fox News interview that the hostages would likely be freed by Monday.
Benjamin Netanyahu and Trump spoke by phone, praising each other for an "historic achievement." Netanyahu also invited the U.S. president to address Israel’s parliament, his office confirmed.
Hamas had earlier submitted lists of hostages it holds and Palestinian prisoners it seeks in exchange. The group has so far refused to engage with Israel’s demand to disarm. A Palestinian source indicated Hamas would reject such conditions as long as Israeli forces remain in Palestinian territory.
Indications of an impending agreement emerged shortly before Trump’s announcement during a White House meeting, when Secretary of State Marco Rubio passed the president a handwritten note.
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