Latest Ceasefire Deal News | Top Ceasefire Deal News Headlines Today | Today India news | Breaking Ceasefire Deal News Today | English Ceasefire Deal News Headlines - TheDailyGuardian

Ceasefire Showdown: Hamas Demands Changes As Trump Envoy Rejects Response

June 2, 2025, 4:02 am

Hamas on Saturday said that it is calling for modifications to a US-supported ceasefire proposal which is meant to bring the ongoing hostilities in Gaza to an end. But former US President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, rejected the group’s reaction as “totally unacceptable.”

Hamas said it would free 10 surviving hostages and the remains of 18 who had been killed in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, along with a permanent ceasefire and complete Israeli withdrawal terms Israel has time and again refused. Even though Hamas has described its reply as “positive,” Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu asserted that the organization was hampering progress. “Israel will keep working to bring our hostages home and dismantle Hamas,” he stated.

Hamas’s proposed deal, supported by Trump and mediators Egypt and Qatar, entails a 60-day ceasefire under which 28 of the 58 remaining hostages would be released in exchange for more than 1,200 Palestinian prisoners. The deal also calls for unfettered humanitarian assistance and the reopening of Gaza’s basic infrastructure.

Witkoff strongly condemned Hamas terms, saying on X that the reaction “only takes us backward.” Israeli forces meanwhile continue to bombard Gaza. On Saturday, the military confirmed that Mohammad Sinwar, a Hamas commander and brother of Yahya Sinwar, was killed in a targeted strike.

The situation in Gaza remains to worsen as Israel maintains its blockade. The World Food Programme cited massive hunger as armed groups looted aid convoys. The UN alerted that Gaza is experiencing unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe, with close to all of its 2 million inhabitants facing famine.

Despite limited aid deliveries and a US-backed humanitarian distribution system, many international aid agencies remain critical, saying current efforts fall drastically short. Israel, meanwhile, maintains that it facilitates aid but blames Hamas for obstructing distribution by seizing supplies.

Negotiations continue as the conflict enters its 19th month.

Trump Praises India-Pakistan Ceasefire Understanding After Tense Standoff

May 11, 2025, 10:08 am

U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday morning praised India and Pakistan for reaching a ceasefire understanding after days of escalating tension over the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. He warned that the situation could have led to a major loss of life.

Trump Applauds Leadership

Trump called the agreement a “historic and heroic decision.” He appreciated the courage shown by both countries in choosing peace over further conflict. “I am very proud of the strong and unwaveringly powerful leadership of India and Pakistan for having the strength, wisdom, and fortitude to fully know and understand that it was time to stop the current aggression that could have led to the death and destruction of so many, and so much. Millions of good and innocent people could have died! Your legacy is greatly enhanced by your brave actions.” He shared this message on Truth Social, his platform, on Sunday morning.

Conflicting Views on How the Ceasefire Happened

On Saturday evening, Trump had claimed that both nations agreed to halt military actions after talks mediated by the United States. However, India offered a different version. Indian officials clarified that the ceasefire understanding resulted from direct talks with Pakistan, not through U.S. intervention.

Pledge to Boost Trade and Support Kashmir Peace

Trump said he plans to increase trade with both India and Pakistan. He also expressed hope for long-term peace in Kashmir, a region that has been at the heart of disputes between the two countries for decades. “I am proud that the USA was able to help you arrive at this historic and heroic decision. While not even discussed, I am going to increase trade substantially with both of these great Nations. Additionally, I will work with you both to see if, after a ‘thousand years,’ a solution can be arrived at concerning Kashmir. God Bless the leadership of India and Pakistan on a job well done.”

The ceasefire came after four days of intense military exchange between India and Pakistan. The violence followed a terror attack in Pahalgam, which significantly raised tensions in the region.

Israel to Free 737 Prisoners as Part of Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Release Deal

January 18, 2025, 12:43 pm

Israel’s justice ministry announced that the Israeli government approved the release of 737 prisoners and detainees in the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal on Saturday. The prisoners to be freed are already in the custody of Israel’s prison service, which is a big step forward in the negotiations.

The Justice Ministry of Israel stated that the prisoners include men, women, and children, but authorities will not release them before Sunday at 4:00 pm local time (1400 GMT). The Israeli cabinet voted early Saturday to approve the ceasefire agreement, ending the uncertainty surrounding it leading up to the weekend.

Notable Individuals on the Release List

The list of inmates to be released includes several names, such as Zakaria Zubeidi, the top leader of the armed wing of the Palestinian Fatah party. Zubeidi became highly famous in 2021 after breaking out from Gilboa prison in Israel, forcing a huge hunt for him by the authorities. Palestinians regard him as a heroic figure, and his freedom is an integral part of this agreement.

Another high-profile arrestee is Khalida Jarrar, a member of the leftist Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP). Israel, the United States, and the European Union have declared PFLP a “terrorist organization.” Israel arrested Jarar multiple times and arrested her again in late December 2023. She was detained without charge, making her freedom an important political statement.

Hostage Release Deal and Further Steps on Ceasefire

Two sources close to Hamas confirm that the initial stage of the hostage release deal includes 33 hostages, with three of them being Israeli women soldiers. It is important to note that Hamas considers any Israeli of military age who has completed their mandatory service as a soldier. This can mean civilians kidnapped in the first assault that led to the war.

Israel’s justice ministry has confirmed that the number of prisoners released in the first phase of the swap will depend on the number of live hostages released by Hamas. Consequently, this deal underscores the ongoing tensions and complex negotiations between Israel and Palestinian factions in the region.

The freeing of 737 Palestinian prisoners is an important development in the long-standing conflict. The move gives hope to the families of the victims, but it remains uncertain whether it will influence the overall situation. The freeing of high-profile individuals like Zubeidi and Jarar will have both political and emotional consequences, influencing the future of talks and negotiations in the region.

Israel’s Security Cabinet Approves Ceasefire, Set to Begin Sunday

January 18, 2025, 7:33 am

Israel’s government has officially approved a ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement, set to take effect on Sunday. The deal focuses on the exchange of hostages and Palestinian prisoners and will temporarily halt the 15-month-long war in Gaza for six weeks.

Cabinet Finalizes the Agreement

The cabinet meeting lasted well into Saturday morning. Lawmakers agreed that the ceasefire would begin on Sunday. However, some key details remain unclear, such as the names of the 33 hostages to be released in the first phase and their current status.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the decision, stating, “The government has approved the hostage return plan.” Despite facing internal opposition, the deal was approved late on Friday. Netanyahu faced pressure from far-right members of his coalition, which could have delayed the agreement.

Approval Time Reflects the Deal’s Importance

The agreement was ratified around 1:00 a.m. local time, according to The Times of Israel. The meeting lasted six hours and extended past the beginning of the Jewish Sabbath. This is an unusual occurrence, highlighting the deal’s significance.

Meanwhile, negotiators from Egypt, Qatar, the U.S., and Israel concluded talks in Cairo. They finalized the necessary arrangements for implementing the Gaza truce. Egyptian state-linked media reported the developments. Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the decision, saying, “This is a vital step on the path to upholding the basic commitment a nation has to its citizens.”

Internal Opposition Poses a Challenge

The process faced complications when Israel’s far-right Security Minister, Itamar Ben-Gvir, threatened to resign if the deal was ratified. Ben-Gvir voiced concerns, saying, “Everyone knows that these terrorists will try to harm again, try to kill again.” He urged parliamentarians to vote against the agreement the next day.

Despite his objections, both Ben-Gvir and Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich voted against the deal. On the other hand, other ministers supported it. David Amsalem, a minister not part of the security cabinet, also opposed the deal during the vote.

Court Challenge Expected

With the deal approved, the Israeli High Court is scheduled to hear a petition against the release of Palestinian prisoners within 24 hours. However, Israeli media report that the court is unlikely to intervene.

Details of the Hostage Exchange

The first phase of the deal will last 42 days. During this phase, Hamas will release 33 hostages, including children, women (including female soldiers), and men over 50. In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including approximately 100 individuals serving life sentences for violent attacks on Israelis.

The Israel Defence Force (IDF) clarified that the names of the hostages will be disclosed only after they are returned to their families.

Ceasefire in Gaza: A temporary respite or a prelude to future conflict?

January 17, 2025, 12:46 am

The announcement of a ceasefire deal in conflict between Hamas and Israel This agreement marks a significant step toward ending a 15-month-long war that has left countless lives shattered and entire regions in ruins. As the world watches this moment unfold, the ceasefire provides an opportunity for reflection on the war’s implications, the challenges of rebuilding, and the prospects for peace. This ceasefire agreement exposes its immediate and long-term impacts on the Middle East, the political implications in the United States, and the daunting future that lies ahead for Gaza and Palestine.

The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is a complex arrangement aimed at halting hostilities and addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The deal includes a 42-day cessation of fighting, the release of 33 hostages, and an increase in humanitarian aid to Gaza. While it brings temporary relief to both sides, it is far from comprehensive, lacking guarantees for long-term peace or post-war reconstruction.

Negotiated under U.S. President Joe Biden’s administration and set to be implemented during President-elect Donald Trump’s term, the deal reflects significant international pressure and changing dynamics in the region. Both Biden and Trump claim credit for the agreement, with Biden emphasizing diplomatic efforts and Trump highlighting a hardline approach. However, the terms remain fragile, with potential risks of resumed violence if either side perceives breaches or unmet commitments.

The ceasefire offers a temporary respite but leaves the region grappling with deep scars and unresolved tensions. For Gaza, the destruction is monumental, with tens of thousands of lives lost, entire neighbourhoods obliterated, and critical infrastructure decimated. Israel, though safer than before, has paid a heavy price with significant military casualties and heightened security concerns.

One of the most notable outcomes of the war is the widening rift over the prospect of a two-state solution. Many Arab and European nations have intensified calls for a sovereign Palestinian state, viewing the conflict as a turning point. However, in Israel, the idea of an independent Palestine faces staunch opposition, as many fear it could lead to more attacks akin to those on October 7, 2023.

The war has also reshaped regional power dynamics. Hezbollah, a key ally of Hamas, has been severely weakened, and Iran’s influence in the region is at its lowest since 1979. Meanwhile, Lebanon and Syria are witnessing political shifts, offering glimmers of hope for more stable governance. However, these changes are overshadowed by the immense humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the uncertainty of what comes next.
In the United States, the ceasefire agreement is a rare instance of bipartisan support. Both Democrats and Republicans are claiming credit for its success, reflecting their distinct approaches to Middle East diplomacy. For President Biden, the deal underscores his administration’s commitment to stabilizing the region through diplomacy and military aid. Secretary of State Antony Blinken highlighted the U.S. role in preventing a broader regional war and weakening Iran’s proxies.

President-elect Trump, on the other hand, attributes the deal to his tough diplomacy, marked by ultimatums and strong rhetoric. His team has emphasized the “Trump effect” as a driving force behind the agreement, leveraging it as a key foreign policy victory even before taking office.
Domestically, the ceasefire may influence the political landscape as both parties position themselves as champions of peace and security. However, the deal’s implementation and its long-term outcomes will likely shape public opinion and political narratives in the coming months.

While the ceasefire offers a moment of hope, the path to lasting peace remains fraught with challenges. Hamas, though weakened, retains a degree of control and influence in Gaza. The absence of a clear governance structure in a post-war Gaza raises concerns about potential power vacuums or the resurgence of militant groups.
For Israel, the priority is ensuring that Gaza does not become a breeding ground for future attacks. However, this objective clashes with the need for reconstruction and humanitarian aid, which requires cooperation with Palestinian authorities and the international community.

A broader peace process, including discussions on a two-state solution, seems distant. Both sides remain entrenched in their positions, with deep mistrust and unresolved grievances. The international community’s role will be crucial in facilitating dialogue, ensuring accountability, and addressing the root causes of the conflict.
The Palestinian people face an uphill battle in the aftermath of the war. Gaza’s infrastructure is in ruins, and its population is left grappling with homelessness, unemployment, and a dire humanitarian crisis. Reconstruction efforts will depend on substantial international aid, but these efforts are complicated by the ongoing blockade and the political realities of Hamas’s governance.

The Palestinian Authority in the West Bank is also in a precarious position, lacking the political clout or resources to lead reconstruction efforts or negotiate a lasting peace. Internal divisions among Palestinian factions further hinder progress, leaving the population without a unified voice or strategy.
The psychological toll of the war cannot be ignored. The loss of loved ones, the destruction of homes, and the uncertainty of the future have left deep scars on the Palestinian people. Addressing these challenges requires not only material aid but also long-term investments in education, healthcare, and community rebuilding.

The Hamas-Israel ceasefire is a significant but fragile step toward ending a brutal chapter in the region’s history. While it offers temporary relief and a chance for hostages to reunite with their families, it does not address the underlying issues fueling the conflict. The Middle East remains a landscape of deep divisions, shifting alliances, and unfulfilled promises.
For the United States, the ceasefire highlights the complexities of its role as a mediator and the political capital required to influence outcomes in the region. The Biden administration’s efforts and the incoming Trump administration’s approach underscore the divergent strategies in U.S. foreign policy.
Ultimately, the future of Gaza and Israel hinges on the ability of all parties to move beyond short-term solutions and work toward a comprehensive and lasting peace. This requires addressing the humanitarian crisis, rebuilding trust, and fostering dialogue that prioritizes the rights and aspirations of both Israelis and Palestinians. Only then can the region hope to break the cycle of violence and pave the way for a brighter future.

M A Hossain, political and defence analyst based in Bangladesh.

Biden Mistakenly Blames Hezbollah for Israel’s October 7 Attack

January 16, 2025, 2:27 pm

President Joe Biden made a regrettable verbal error on Wednesday while announcing a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. In his televised address, the President mistakenly referred to Hezbollah when discussing the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. The attack was carried out by Hamas. This gaffe has reignited public discussions about Biden’s history of verbal slip-ups, particularly in recent years.

The Mistake and Its Impact of ‘Hezbollah’

During the press briefing, Biden addressed the ceasefire deal that had been brokered by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar. He stated, “After more than 15 months of conflict that started with Hezbollah’s brutal massacre on October 7th, a ceasefire and a hostage deal have been reached between Israel and Hamas.” He added, pointing to the impact that all parties in this conflict have felt: “More than 15 months of terror for the hostages, their families, the Israeli people.”. For more than 15 months the people of Gaza in suffering.

US President Joe Biden mistakenly names Hamas as Hezbollah – while holding a news conference, announcing the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas.

? https://t.co/KENOTZxJ3d

? Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTub pic.twitter.com/fPCMOyD5VE

— Sky News (@SkyNews) January 15, 2025

The October 7 attack, which was perpetrated by Hamas, left around 1,210 dead. The majority of whom were civilians, and 251 abducted. It served as a starting point for Israel’s military reaction, which eventually took over 46,000 Palestinian lives. The majority of them women and children, in the next 15 months of conflict.

The Ceasefire Deal and Hostage Exchange

The agreement of ceasefire has been brokered by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, aiming to end the ravaging conflict between Israel and Hamas. Fighting will be put to an end in Gaza and the hostages Hamas held will be freed. Many Palestinian prisoners will be released in Israel as well as in exchange for the other remaining ones.

While Biden’s false statement has taken center stage, the real concern lies in the promise of the ceasefire deal. The hope is that this agreement will bring the region out of the suffering and bloodshed it has endured. Both sides have agreed to cease hostilities, offering a glimmer of hope for peace in the region.

Biden’s Verbal Lapses and Public Scrutiny

This is one of the instances where President Biden’s verbal blunders have come under scrutiny again, and in the past, they have sparked controversy. Though slips of this nature are common for public figures, it has often been used to question their communication skills, especially in sensitive matters related to national and international security.

Despite the error, the Biden administration continues its efforts to build peace and stabilize the region. It emphasizes resolving conflicts through diplomatic exchanges and negotiations.

Many people have taken to social media to air their reactions, starting with criticizing the error and others supporting the ceasefire and its implications for peace.

“Every Day We Die”: Israeli Hostage’s Plea Sparks Renewed Push For Ceasefire Deal| Watch

December 8, 2024, 12:03 pm

The Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas’ armed wing, released a video on Saturday featuring Matan Zangauker, an Israeli hostage held in Gaza since the October 2023 Hamas attack. In the video, Zangauker described the harrowing conditions of captivity, saying, “We die a thousand times every day, and no one feels for us.”

Speaking in Hebrew, Zangauker revealed he has been in captivity for over 420 days and called on the Israeli public to pressure their government to negotiate the release of hostages. He criticized the government, stating, “The government has neglected us and continues to neglect us day after day.”

Zangauker, 24 at the time of his abduction from the Nir Oz kibbutz, was captured alongside his partner, Ilana Gritzewsky, who was released during a truce last year. His mother, Einav Zangauker, has been actively advocating for a ceasefire and hostages’ release. Addressing Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, she urged immediate action, warning that Zangauker’s survival is uncertain amid military operations and harsh conditions.

????? “The government has neglected us and continues to neglect us day after day”.
— Hostage Matan Zangauker in new Hamas video

Al-Qassam Brigades released the video of Matan, who pleads with Israel to get home fast… the video also ends with the caption “Time is Running… pic.twitter.com/e2Nxwxc0vf

— TabZ (@TabZLIVE) December 7, 2024

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum described the video as crucial evidence that hostages remain alive and stressed the urgency of securing their release. The group warned that “these hostages’ lives hang by a thread.”

According to the Israeli military, 251 individuals were abducted during the initial Hamas attack, with 96 still held in Gaza and 34 confirmed dead.

On Saturday, Qatar announced renewed momentum in ceasefire discussions, with negotiations expected to resume next week. Qatar, along with the United States and Egypt, has been mediating talks for over a year, though a resolution remains elusive.

Israel Defence Minister Warns Of Forceful Response Ahead Of Ceasefire Vote With Hezbollah

November 26, 2024, 5:42 pm

Ahead of a key vote by Israel’s security cabinet on a ceasefire agreement with Lebanon’s Hezbollah, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to the United Nations’ Lebanon envoy, Janine Hennis-Plasschaert. Katz emphasized that any violation of the impending ceasefire would lead Israel to respond “forcefully.” He told the envoy in a meeting in Tel Aviv, “If you do not act, we will do it, forcefully,” adding that Israel would maintain “zero tolerance” when defending its security interests.

The ceasefire deal, which is set for approval later today, is seen as a crucial step toward ending the violent conflict that has raged for 14 months, triggered by the Gaza war. Thousands of lives have been lost since Hezbollah joined the fighting. Israel’s security cabinet is expected to approve the ceasefire plan, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu leading the session.

The agreement calls for the withdrawal of Israeli troops from southern Lebanon, while Lebanon’s army would be deployed to the region, an area traditionally controlled by Hezbollah, within 60 days. In return, Hezbollah would end its armed presence south of the Litani River, the area along the border with Israel.

A key component of the deal involves effective UN enforcement of the ceasefire. Israel has made it clear that it will not tolerate any violations, ensuring the protection of its security interests and enabling the return of displaced residents in northern Israel. The US and France are expected to announce the ceasefire agreement once Israel’s approval is secured.

Despite signs of a potential diplomatic breakthrough, the situation remains tense. Israeli airstrikes continued on Tuesday, targeting Hezbollah-controlled areas in southern Beirut, while Hezbollah has maintained its rocket fire into Israel. The ongoing violence has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis, with over 1 million displaced in Lebanon and many left homeless, just as winter approaches.

In northern Israel, the ceasefire would allow around 60,000 residents who fled their homes due to Hezbollah’s rocket attacks to return, bringing some relief after a year of conflict.

Hezbollah Signals Ceasefire Willingness With Israel As Israel Steps Up Lebanon Strikes

October 31, 2024, 1:01 pm

Hezbollah’s new leader, Naim Qassem, indicated on Wednesday that the group would consider a ceasefire if specific conditions are met, even as Israel continues heavy bombardment of Hezbollah-held territories in Lebanon. This announcement follows the recent death of former Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and comes as Israel’s security cabinet deliberates over possible truce terms.

Qassem, speaking with Al-Jadeed, reaffirmed Hezbollah’s readiness to sustain resistance against Israeli offensives. He also acknowledged, however, that the group might agree to a ceasefire if Israel proposes a credible peace offer. “If the Israelis choose to end the aggression, we are open to acceptance, under terms we deem appropriate,” he stated.

Israeli forces have ramped up operations against Hezbollah strongholds, with recent strikes in the eastern city of Baalbek killing a senior Hezbollah commander and leaving 19 civilians dead, according to Lebanon’s health ministry.

Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati voiced “cautious optimism” about the prospect of a truce, noting that US envoy Amos Hochstein suggested an agreement might be reached before the US elections on November 5. Meanwhile, Israeli Energy Minister Eli Cohen confirmed that the security cabinet is exploring a potential 60-day ceasefire proposal, contingent on Hezbollah’s pullback from border areas.

With escalating violence in Baalbek, Israeli military officials confirmed they were specifically targeting Hezbollah command centers. Hostilities have resulted in significant casualties on both sides; an AFP tally reports at least 1,754 Lebanese deaths since the conflict reignited in September.

On the diplomatic front, the US State Department announced that President Biden’s Middle East adviser, along with Hochstein, is en route to Israel to advance negotiations for ceasefires in Lebanon and Gaza. This follows intensified strikes in Gaza that have prompted widespread international concern. As the violence continues, the potential for a ceasefire remains uncertain, but diplomatic efforts are gaining momentum.

Biden Dials Netanyahu: Urges Urgent Ceasefire Deal Between Israel and Hamas

August 22, 2024, 4:02 am

In a critical phone call on Wednesday, U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the urgent need for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to conclude a ceasefire-for-hostages deal in Gaza. The White House reported that Biden also highlighted the significance of upcoming talks in Cairo, which are seen as pivotal in overcoming the remaining hurdles in the negotiations.

The call came on the heels of U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken’s recent visit to the Middle East, which ended without an agreement between Israel and Hamas. Despite months of negotiations, a ceasefire deal has remained elusive, with key issues still unresolved.

Biden’s discussions with Netanyahu also touched on broader U.S. support for Israel in the face of threats from Iran and its proxy groups, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis. The U.S. has responded to the escalating tensions by deploying additional military assets to the region, including a guided missile submarine and the Abraham Lincoln strike group.

Netanyahu’s office, however, denied reports that Israel had agreed to withdraw its troops from the Philadelphi corridor, a strategic strip of land along Gaza’s southern border with Egypt. Hamas is demanding a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, including the corridor, which Israel has held since late May after destroying numerous tunnels used for smuggling weapons.

Biden’s call underscores the high stakes involved in the ongoing negotiations, as both sides continue to grapple with the complex issues at the heart of the conflict.