Netanyahu visits US as Trump puts pressure to agree Gaza ceasefire deal

July 7, 2025

After 21 months of Gaza conflict, there are growing hopes for a new ceasefire as Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu meets with US President Trump in Washington. Both leaders have expressed optimism about reaching an agreement, with Trump stating he believes "we'll have a deal" this week. Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas on a US-sponsored proposal for a 60-day ceasefire and hostage release resumed in Qatar, though key differences remain unresolved.

Who is affected

Palestinians in Gaza living in "dire conditions" amid continued Israeli bombardment
Israeli hostages (approximately 50) still held by Hamas, with up to 20 believed alive
Families of the hostages waiting for their return
Children in Gaza suffering from acute malnutrition
Over 2,000 Gazans held in Israeli "administrative detention" without charge or trial
Israeli soldiers (with more than 20 killed in the past month)
Gaza civilians (with over 57,000 killed according to Hamas-run health ministry)

What action is being taken

Netanyahu is meeting with Trump at the White House to discuss the ceasefire proposal
Indirect talks between Israel and Hamas on a US-sponsored ceasefire proposal are occurring in Qatar
Large rallies are taking place in Israel urging the government to secure a hostage release deal
The Israeli military is continuing operations in Gaza amid ongoing bombardment
Hamas is reviewing the ceasefire proposal and has responded with "positive spirit" while expressing reservations

Why it matters

The 21-month war has resulted in over 57,000 Palestinian deaths and continues to create a humanitarian crisis
Approximately 50 Israeli hostages remain in captivity, with their families desperate for their return
A ceasefire would allow increased humanitarian aid into Gaza, where children are suffering from acute malnutrition
The recent 12-day war with Iran has created potentially more favorable circumstances to end the Gaza conflict
The US-sponsored proposal represents a possible breakthrough in previously deadlocked negotiations
Two-thirds of Israelis support a ceasefire deal to bring home the hostages, creating domestic pressure

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC