For the first time in months, Israel and Hamas have expressed willingness to engage with Donald Trump’s proposed ceasefire plan to end the nearly two-year conflict in Gaza. While both sides agree on key aspects such as hostage release, doubts remain over disarmament and political control, making the situation cautiously optimistic but fragile.

Israel and Hamas have agreed to engage with Donald Trump’s proposed ceasefire plan, marking a potential turning point in the nearly two-year Gaza conflict. The initiative aims to secure the release of all hostages held by Hamas, establish an internationally supervised administration in Gaza, allow the gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops, and restore humanitarian aid and essential services to millions of civilians. Negotiations are set to resume in Cairo this week, with Egyptian and Qatari mediators joining Trump’s envoy to facilitate the discussions.

Progress And Diplomatic Moves

In a televised address, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Israel was “on the brink of a great achievement,” suggesting progress toward a deal. He credited combined diplomatic and military pressure from Washington and Jerusalem for pushing Hamas toward compromise.

Hamas stated it would release all remaining hostages in exchange for roughly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and the bodies of Gazans killed in the conflict. However, the group has not fully committed to key elements of Trump’s plan, including disarmament and giving up political control of Gaza.

International Response And Negotiations

The White House described the developments as a “major breakthrough,” though Trump warned Hamas to act swiftly, saying, “All bets will be off” if delays occur. Negotiations are scheduled to resume in Cairo, with Egyptian and Qatari mediators joining Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff.

Israel has already shifted to a defensive posture, though airstrikes and gunfire continued overnight, highlighting the fragility of the current situation. Observers note that while the ceasefire plan represents hope, years of distrust and ongoing military activity make progress uncertain.

Human Impact And Public Sentiment

On the ground, Gazans expressed desperate hopes for peace, while thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv demanding an agreement to secure the release of hostages. Einav Zangauker, whose son remains captive, said, “The people of Israel want this deal.”

Under Trump’s 20-point plan, Hamas would free all hostages within 72 hours, disarm, and allow a new international administration to govern Gaza. Israeli troops would gradually withdraw, and humanitarian aid would be restored fully.

Cautious Optimism Amid Uncertainty

Despite the tentative agreement, both sides remain cautious. The world watches as fragile optimism competes with deep-seated mistrust, and Trump seeks to turn the truce into what he calls “a great peace of history.” While key hurdles remain, the recent developments offer a rare glimpse of potential resolution in a conflict that has left Gaza devastated and its people struggling to survive.