The U.S. encourages a cease-fire negotiation with Hamas, while Israel's conditions raise skepticism about long-term peace.
White House Proposes Cease-Fire Amid Rising Gaza Tensions
White House Proposes Cease-Fire Amid Rising Gaza Tensions
New initiative aims for humanitarian aid and reduced conflict as international pressure mounts.
The White House has introduced a new cease-fire proposal to Hamas, designed to permit the flow of much-needed humanitarian aid into Gaza, amid escalating calls for peace as the region grapples with ongoing conflict. The proposal, which has the backing of the Israeli government, aims to alleviate the humanitarian crisis by establishing a 60-day cease-fire, as stated by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.
The plan was unveiled by President Trump and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff after receiving endorsement from Israeli officials. An Israeli representative noted that the initial measures would involve coordinating aid delivery through U.N.-managed operations. However, Hamas leaders have expressed doubt regarding the adequacy of the proposal, indicating that it lacks sufficient guarantees on achieving a definitive resolution to the hostilities.
Leavitt emphasized the ongoing negotiations, expressing hope for a cease-fire that would also enable the safe return of hostages taken during the conflict. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce added a note of cautious optimism regarding the negotiations, although it remains uncertain whether Hamas will endorse a deal that includes Israeli conditions.
The primary issue hindering an agreement remains the contrasting demands from the two parties: Israel insists on retaining the right to resume military action should Hamas not disarm, while Hamas seeks solid assurances that a temporary cease-fire would lead to an enduring peace and a complete Israeli exit from Gaza.
After 18 months of relentless warfare, the necessity for a cessation has become urgent, with growing dissatisfaction among Israel’s allies, including Germany, Italy, Britain, Canada, and France, who have expressed concerns over the expansion of military operations and the rising civilian casualties in the region. As the international community monitors the situation, the focus remains on whether this latest cease-fire initiative can bring about a resolution to a protracted and devastating conflict.
The plan was unveiled by President Trump and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff after receiving endorsement from Israeli officials. An Israeli representative noted that the initial measures would involve coordinating aid delivery through U.N.-managed operations. However, Hamas leaders have expressed doubt regarding the adequacy of the proposal, indicating that it lacks sufficient guarantees on achieving a definitive resolution to the hostilities.
Leavitt emphasized the ongoing negotiations, expressing hope for a cease-fire that would also enable the safe return of hostages taken during the conflict. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce added a note of cautious optimism regarding the negotiations, although it remains uncertain whether Hamas will endorse a deal that includes Israeli conditions.
The primary issue hindering an agreement remains the contrasting demands from the two parties: Israel insists on retaining the right to resume military action should Hamas not disarm, while Hamas seeks solid assurances that a temporary cease-fire would lead to an enduring peace and a complete Israeli exit from Gaza.
After 18 months of relentless warfare, the necessity for a cessation has become urgent, with growing dissatisfaction among Israel’s allies, including Germany, Italy, Britain, Canada, and France, who have expressed concerns over the expansion of military operations and the rising civilian casualties in the region. As the international community monitors the situation, the focus remains on whether this latest cease-fire initiative can bring about a resolution to a protracted and devastating conflict.
