As international pressure mounts to halt the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the U.S. has sent a cease-fire proposal to Hamas, which includes a temporary cease-fire and U.N.-administered aid flow. Hamas indicates that more guarantees are needed to ensure long-term peace.**
U.S. Proposes Cease-Fire to Hamas Amid Rising Pressure on Israel**
U.S. Proposes Cease-Fire to Hamas Amid Rising Pressure on Israel**
The White House has introduced a cease-fire proposal endorsed by Israel, aimed at facilitating aid delivery into Gaza while Hamas expresses skepticism.**
The White House has taken significant steps to mediate tensions in Gaza, submitting a cease-fire plan that has been backed by Israel. This initiative comes amidst intensifying global pressure to bring an end to the protracted violence affecting the region. According to American and Israeli officials, President Trump and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff delivered the proposal to Hamas after obtaining support from Israeli leadership.
Details shared by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt suggest that the initial agreement would involve a cease-fire lasting 60 days and the provision of humanitarian aid through United Nations operations. However, Hamas officials have expressed skepticism, indicating that the proposal may lack sufficient guarantees for a lasting peace.
"The discussions are ongoing, and our hope is that we can achieve a cease-fire in Gaza, allowing for the safe return of all hostages," Leavitt remarked during a press briefing at the White House. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce also commented on the situation, acknowledging the uncertainty about Hamas's acceptance of the cease-fire plan but suggesting there was "some important optimism" regarding the proposal's potential.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, significant differences remain between the parties. Israel is adamant that it retains the right to resume military action should Hamas fail to disarm, while Hamas insists on firm assurances that a temporary cease-fire would lead to a permanent resolution and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
After 18 months of conflict, any pause in hostilities is being eagerly anticipated, particularly as key allies of Israel—Germany, Italy, Britain, Canada, and France—have recently voiced concern about the military operations in Gaza and the alarming civilian casualty rates.
