US President Donald Trump has given new hope for peace in Gaza. He said a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas could be achieved as early as next week. His remarks bring cautious optimism after nearly two years of war.
On Friday, while hosting a peace agreement signing between DR Congo and Rwanda at the Oval Office, Trump spoke to reporters. He said, “I think it’s close. I just spoke to some of the people involved.” He added, “We think within the next week we’re going to get a ceasefire.”
Earlier Peace Efforts Between Israel and Iran Fuel Optimism
The push for a ceasefire in Gaza gained momentum after the U.S. brokered a peace deal between Israel and Iran earlier this week. That agreement ended a 12-day conflict which, according to Trump, “obliterated” Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Hamas Confirms Talks Are Ongoing
Meanwhile, Hamas also acknowledged ongoing efforts. Taher al-Nunu, a senior official from the group, told AFP that ceasefire negotiations have picked up.
He said, “Our communications with the brother mediators in Egypt and Qatar have not stopped and have intensified in recent hours.” However, he also noted that they had “not yet received any new proposals” to officially end the war, which has entered its 21st month.
Hostage Release Part of Deal
As part of the proposed truce, Hamas has agreed to release all remaining hostages. However, Israel has made it clear that it will stop military operations only after Hamas is either disarmed or dismantled.
Israel, U.S. Hold Talks on Gaza, Iran
In the meantime, Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer plans to visit Washington starting Monday. According to a source quoted by Reuters, Dermer will hold talks with Trump administration officials. The discussions will focus on Gaza, Iran, and a possible White House visit by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
IDF Investigates Allegations of War Crimes
At the same time, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have launched an internal investigation. They are looking into reports that soldiers may have shot at Palestinian civilians collecting food at aid distribution centres in Gaza.
According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, anonymous soldiers claimed that commanders ordered them to fire at crowds near food supply areas to stop them from approaching Israeli army positions. The soldiers also admitted they felt uncomfortable attacking people who seemed harmless.
