Diplomatic Efforts Intensify as Israel Seeks Resumption of Talks with Hamas

Following a series of strikes in Gaza, Israel's foreign minister indicated readiness to engage in peace talks with Hamas, coinciding with President Trump's remarks on a proposed cease-fire. The discussions aim to facilitate the release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, as diplomatic momentum grows.

As tensions escalate in the region, Israel's foreign minister expressed a renewed interest in negotiating with Hamas. Gideon Saar highlighted “some positive signs” in the ongoing U.S.-led initiative to rejuvenate cease-fire negotiations. Saar's comments came shortly after President Trump announced that Israel had agreed to conditions that could lead to a 60-day cease-fire aimed at facilitating the release of some hostages held in Gaza.

The minister underlined Israel’s desire to resume talks “as soon as possible.” He spoke about initiating “proximity talks,” a diplomatic approach where intermediaries assist in negotiating details of an agreement. Hamas is currently contemplating the U.S.-backed proposal, although the specifics of the arrangement remain hazy. Sources from both sides suggest the deal may involve the release of 10 living hostages along with the return of 18 deceased bodies held by Hamas, in return for Palestinian prisoners.

This diplomatic resurgence comes as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is slated to meet with President Trump next week in Washington, following recent airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities by Israel. On the side of Iran, the country's suspension of cooperation with U.N. nuclear inspectors coincides with a new evaluation by the Pentagon on the effectiveness of U.S. and Israeli strikes in hindering Iran's nuclear ambitions.