Netanyahu and Trump Push for Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal in White House Talks

In a high-stakes diplomatic effort, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met twice with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House this week, seeking to break deadlock in negotiations for a 60-day Gaza ceasefire and the release of dozens of Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The meetings, held on July 7 and 8, marked a renewed push by both leaders to end the months-long conflict and avoid further regional escalation.

Prime Minister Netanyahu, under pressure both internationally and from his far-right coalition at home, signaled openness to the ceasefire but made clear that Israel’s position remains conditional. “We are prepared to accept a temporary halt in combat if Hamas agrees to disarm and release hostages,” he said. “If that does not happen, we will continue our operations.”

The proposed agreement reportedly includes the following key elements:

A 60-day pause in fighting, with Israeli troop withdrawals from specific areas in Gaza, including parts of Rafah and the Morag Corridor.

Release of approximately 10 living hostages, as well as the return of the remains of up to 18 deceased individuals.

A reciprocal release of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.

Humanitarian aid entry into Gaza, coordinated by Egypt, Qatar, and the U.N.

Hamas’s commitment to halt attacks and begin a phased disarmament, monitored by international observers.

Despite optimism from U.S. negotiators, the final agreement is far from certain. Netanyahu is facing stiff resistance from hardliners within his cabinet, many of whom reject any long-term compromise with Hamas. For Trump, the stakes are equally high, as he attempts to restore U.S. credibility in the Middle East following years of volatility and fractured alliances.

Author: Global Ripple

Posted on: July 09, 2025