Trump aims to secure an agreement with Netanyahu by the week's end.
The Middle East is witnessing a significant development in the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip, as Israel and Hamas move closer to a new ceasefire agreement, with the United States acting as a key mediator. The proposed deal, which includes a 60-day pause in fighting and the release of hostages, is under consideration, but the long-term resolution of the conflict and the ultimate fate of Hamas leadership remain unresolved issues.
The latest proposal by mediator Qatar for a 60-day ceasefire involves the release of ten hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, according to Israeli intelligence, at least 20 hostages are still alive in Gaza, with the status of two abduction victims unclear. The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, has reaffirmed his rejection of any agreement that would keep the Islamic Hamas in power in the Gaza Strip.
The agreement would also allow large-scale aid to flow into Gaza, addressing the humanitarian crisis there. The United States, particularly with former President Donald Trump now directly involved in discussions, is acting as a key intermediary. Trump has publicly stated his desire to be known as a peacemaker, and Netanyahu has acknowledged that these talks could help advance the goal of a ceasefire.
A major unresolved issue is whether the ceasefire will lead to a complete end to the war. Hamas is demanding an end to the war and full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for releasing all hostages. Netanyahu, however, insists that the war will only end if Hamas is militarily defeated or surrenders, disarms, and its leaders go into exile—conditions Hamas has so far refused to accept.
The negotiations remain stalled over these key points. Trump expressed optimism before his meeting with Netanyahu that an agreement with Hamas could be reached for the release of more hostages. The meeting between Trump and Netanyahu is scheduled for today at 6:30 PM local time (00:30 AM CET/Tuesday) at the White House.
Meanwhile, the conflict in Yemen continues, with the Israeli Air Force targeting military facilities of the Iran-backed Houthi militia overnight. Sirens wailed in Israel due to two rockets fired from Yemen, which the air defense intercepted. In response, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that Yemen will be treated like Tehran, and anyone harming Israel will be harmed.
The power plant in Ras Kanatib near Hudaida was attacked by the Israeli army, and the targets included ports Ras Issa, Hudaida, and Salif, and the cargo ship "Galaxy Leader" captured by the Houthis in November 2023. The conflict in Yemen, along with Iran's nuclear program, which was bombed by Israel and the US less than two weeks ago, are also on the agenda in Washington.
In a positive note, Netanyahu expressed optimism for a great future for Israel and the Middle East before his departure to the US. Trump is hopeful of reaching a ceasefire and hostage release in the Gaza Strip this week. As the negotiations continue, both parties remain hopeful for a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict.
The upcoming meeting between Trump and Netanyahu at 6:30 PM local time (00:30 AM CET/Tuesday) at the White House will focus on achieving a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, in which the United States is acting as a key intermediary. Meanwhile, Trump is also hopeful for the release of more hostages in Yemen, as negotiations over key points in both conflicts continue, with both parties remaining optimistic for a peaceful resolution.
