As Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu visits the White House, hopes are high for a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza conflict, which has persisted for 21 months. This meeting with President Donald Trump comes as both leaders show commitment to ending the prolonged violence. Trump expressed optimism about reaching a deal, stating he had been "very firm" in discussions with Netanyahu.
Before boarding his flight, Netanyahu said, "We are working to achieve the deal that has been discussed, under the conditions we have agreed," highlighting the potential advancement of talks driven by this latest engagement with the U.S.
Indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas resumed in Qatar, focusing on a U.S-sponsored proposal for a 60-day ceasefire and potential hostage release. However, skepticism remains due to recurring obstacles in the negotiations, especially concerning the humanitarian situation faced by Palestinians and the families of Israeli hostages.
Nabil Abu Dayah, a displaced Palestinian, expressed his concerns, saying, "I don't wish for a truce but a complete stop to all war. Honestly, I'm afraid that after 60 days the war would restart again." His words reflect the dire reality faced by many, with reports of scarcity of food, clean water, and shelter affecting those in Gaza.
In Jerusalem, rallies called for the release of around 50 hostages, with some families voicing frustration over the proposed framework of the deal, questioning why not all captives would be freed at once. Ilay David, whose brother is among those captured, voiced the urgency of the moment, stating, "This is the time to save lives."
This marks Netanyahu's third visit to Washington since Trump reclaimed the presidency, but their meeting follows significant U.S. actions, including Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, which could influence the negotiations. Analysts suggest that recent military activities may have weakened Hamas, potentially making the group more open to making necessary concessions for a ceasefire.
As Trump also aims to address other Middle Eastern priorities, including Israeli-Syrian border discussions and normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia, the stakes are high. Ceasefire talks have repeatedly stalled due to differing core demands, with Israel seeking a temporary truce in exchange for hostages, while Hamas insists on a permanent cessation and withdrawal of Israeli troops.
The latest proposals involve complex arrangements, such as securing hostages through staggered releases in exchange for humanitarian aid to Gaza, yet key issues remain unresolved.
In Israel, public sentiment is shifting, with many calling for a ceasefire deal to secure the return of hostages. As Netanyahu grapples with pressure to negotiate, conditions for civilians in Gaza are dire. The ongoing war has led to grave humanitarian challenges, with the UN indicating a critical shortage of essential supplies.
The backdrop of this crisis has deepened significantly since the October 7 Hamas-led attacks, which prompted Israeli military action, culminating in extensive casualties in Gaza. Recent reports suggest that over 57,000 people have died in the region since the start of the conflict, underscoring the urgent need for resolution.
The coming days are pivotal, with Netanyahu's diplomatic foray potentially marking a crucial turning point in both humanitarian and political arenas for the region.
