Washington — U.S. President Donald Trump announced a high-stakes meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu scheduled for July 7 at the White House, with the main agenda focused on finalizing a proposed 60-day ceasefire in Gaza and addressing broader concerns involving Iran.
Trump confirmed that Israel has already accepted the conditions of a U.S.-mediated ceasefire deal, which is being conveyed to Hamas through Qatar and Egypt. The deal includes a phased hostage release, with Hamas expected to free about half of the remaining Israeli hostages in exchange for the release of Palestinian prisoners and the return of bodies held by Israel.
“This is the best opportunity for peace and recovery,” Trump said, warning Hamas that rejecting the offer would only worsen the situation on the ground.
While the ceasefire initiative garners cautious international optimism, Israel continues its aggressive military campaign in Gaza. Intense ground and air operations have caused extensive damage in both northern and southern areas of the enclave, even as talks continue behind the scenes. At least 20 more Palestinians were reported killed in recent operations, and civilian evacuations have intensified.
As part of the broader diplomatic effort, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer and Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff are in Washington, engaging in preparatory discussions with key U.S. officials including Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. One major focus is shaping the post-conflict administration of Gaza. The proposed plan envisions temporary governance by local Palestinian leaders not affiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, supported by regional Arab states.
Netanyahu’s upcoming visit marks a pivotal moment for advancing the ceasefire framework, which is viewed by Washington as the final opportunity for an agreement under current conditions. Trump has indicated he will press Netanyahu to ensure Israel remains committed to the outlined terms.
The ceasefire proposal also comes amid heightened tensions with Iran. Both Trump and Netanyahu have previously coordinated on military actions aimed at curbing Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The White House talks may further solidify a joint approach to Iran’s influence in the region.
Meanwhile, humanitarian agencies are raising concerns over the handling of aid operations in Gaza. Reports indicate over 500 civilians have been killed during incidents near aid distribution sites operated by the U.S.- and Israeli-backed Gaza Humanitarian Foundation. International calls are growing for reform or dissolution of the current aid mechanism to prevent further loss of life.
The war, which began with Hamas' October 7, 2023, cross-border attack that killed around 1,200 Israelis and led to over 250 hostages being taken, has resulted in more than 56,000 deaths in Gaza according to local health authorities.
With the Trump-Netanyahu meeting approaching and critical diplomatic channels active, the world watches closely as the possibility of a ceasefire and a pathway to post-war recovery hangs in the balance.