The U.S. and Israel are awaiting Hamas’ response to a proposed 60-day ceasefire in Gaza that would include hostage releases and could signal a major diplomatic breakthrough.
At a Glance
- A 60-day ceasefire and hostage exchange plan has been proposed by the U.S. and approved by Israel
- Hamas is reviewing the deal, which includes the release of 10 living hostages and 18 bodies
- The U.S. expresses optimism, while Hamas seeks permanent ceasefire guarantees
- The deal follows a previous truce that collapsed in March amid renewed violence
- Over 54,000 have died in Gaza since the war began in October 2023
Hostage Deal in the Balance
A U.S.-brokered ceasefire proposal that promises a 60-day pause in Gaza fighting now hinges on Hamas’ official response, with regional leaders and humanitarian groups watching closely. The plan, developed through diplomatic channels led by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff and the Trump administration, has already been approved by Israel. It calls for the release of 10 living Israeli hostages and the repatriation of 18 bodies believed to be held by Hamas.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt described the discussions as ongoing but constructive, stating that “President Trump is committed to bringing hostages home and pursuing peace.” Her remarks underscore Washington’s hope that this latest initiative can unlock a broader peace framework—something elusive since the war’s start in October 2023.
Watch a report: Hamas agrees to US-backed Gaza ceasefire proposal.
Hope for a Breakthrough
Hamas leaders have acknowledged receipt of the proposal and confirmed it is under evaluation. Their priorities remain clear: relief for the embattled civilian population of Gaza and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire. Social media reports indicate that Hamas has tentatively accepted a U.S.-led plan that involves a three-phase process, starting with a six-week ceasefire and the phased release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
This initiative comes on the heels of a failed two-month ceasefire that ended in March, after which Israeli forces resumed their military campaign. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has signaled his willingness to temporarily halt fighting to retrieve hostages but insists on defeating Hamas militarily in the long term. This dual approach—temporary relief with strategic persistence—reflects the tightrope Israel must walk between domestic pressures and international expectations.
Escalating Human Cost
Since Hamas launched its deadly October 2023 attacks that killed approximately 1,200 people in Israel, the humanitarian toll in Gaza has soared. Estimates now suggest over 54,000 Palestinians—mostly women and children—have been killed in retaliatory strikes. Civilian infrastructure has crumbled, and food insecurity is now at crisis levels, with recent aid deliveries only partially alleviating the suffering.
As talks progress, international observers remain cautiously optimistic. Groups like the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation continue to deliver essential supplies under extreme conditions, and diplomatic voices from Washington to Doha have called for rapid implementation of any ceasefire deal that brings relief and paves the way for a longer-term solution.
While political risks abound, this 60-day ceasefire could offer a rare window of hope in one of the world’s most entrenched and devastating conflicts.
