Gaza Conflict Update: US Brokered Ceasefire Deal
The proposed ceasefire deal is a significant development in the ongoing conflict, but its success depends on Hamas' acceptance and the ability of Qatar and Egypt to deliver the final proposal. The US is pushing for a permanent end to the war, while Israel seeks a temporary solution, and the meeting between Trump and Netanyahu will be crucial in determining the next steps in the conflict.
US President Donald Trump announced that Israel has agreed to the necessary conditions for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, with the Qataris and Egyptians set to deliver the final proposal, amid ongoing war and protests in New York demanding UN action to end the genocide in Gaza.
The ceasefire comes after a military campaign in Gaza launched by Israel in response to a Hamas attack in October 2023, which killed around 1,200 people. At least 56,647 people have been killed in Gaza since then, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Trump's announcement comes before a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu next week, where he plans to be "very firm" and discuss top issues including Gaza and Iran.
Netanyahu convened his top aides and ministers on Monday evening for a second meeting in as many nights regarding Gaza ceasefire negotiations, but disagreements remain. The US is pushing for a permanent end to the war, while Israel is seeking a temporary ceasefire that leaves open the option for it to resume fighting. A US official said that Israel is trying to get the US to press Qatar to finagle concessions from Hamas, with Qatar being a key player in the negotiations.
The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu is set to take place on July 7, and will also discuss Syria, with the Trump administration seeking to facilitate a gradual warming of ties between Damascus and Jerusalem. The US has ended sanctions on Syria, following through on Trump's promise to do so, in an effort to "promote and support the country's path to stability and peace".