The visit underscores Jordan’s growing role as a hub for stability, peace, and sustainable economic development in the Middle East while opening new avenues for investment and cooperation with Europe.

A Mission to Strengthen Economic and Diplomatic Ties

King Abdullah’s visit seeks to build on Jordan’s long-standing partnership with Europe, with a strong focus on trade, investment, and green innovation.

According to Ali Murad, president of the European Chamber of Commerce (Eurocham) in Jordan, the meetings are designed to position Jordan as a reliable and strategic regional partner, particularly in industries that align with Europe’s development priorities — such as renewable energy, technology, tourism, and advanced manufacturing.

Murad emphasized that the European market is vital for Jordan’s economic growth, as the EU remains one of Jordan’s largest trading partners.

He noted that expanding access to European markets, improving export potential, and fostering private-sector partnerships will be key discussion points during the King’s meetings with EU leaders.

“Jordan’s growing cooperation with Europe reflects the country’s stability, transparency, and readiness to attract high-value investments,” Murad said.

“Through this visit, His Majesty is reaffirming Jordan’s position as a bridge between Europe and the Arab world.”

Advancing Regional Peace and Stability

In addition to economic diplomacy, King Abdullah’s European tour carries a powerful message of peace and regional stability.

During his meeting in Rome with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the Gaza ceasefire agreement.

Both sides emphasized the importance of ensuring that all parties — including Israel and Hamas — adhere to the terms of the US-brokered peace initiative to bring lasting calm to the region.

King Abdullah has long been recognized for his active role in promoting dialogue, humanitarian relief, and conflict resolution in the Middle East. His latest discussions highlight Jordan’s continuing diplomatic influence and its constructive engagement in fostering peace and coexistence.

Cultural and Religious Harmony on the Agenda

In a separate engagement at the Vatican, King Abdullah and Queen Rania met with Pope Leo XIV, underscoring Jordan’s longstanding commitment to religious harmony and the protection of sacred sites.

The King stressed the importance of preserving Christian heritage and religious landmarks in Jordan, a country known for its interfaith coexistence and respect for diversity.

This meeting further reinforces Jordan’s global image as a nation that promotes mutual understanding, religious tolerance, and cultural respect — values deeply appreciated by European partners and international organizations alike.

As global attention turns toward sustainable development, Jordan is positioning itself as a leader in the green economy.

Eurocham, in collaboration with Jordan’s public and private sectors, is actively identifying investment opportunities in renewable energy, eco-friendly infrastructure, and innovation-driven projects.

These initiatives align with both Jordan’s Vision 2033 and the EU Green Deal, creating synergies that will boost job creation, attract environmentally conscious investors, and support regional energy security.

Murad noted that Jordan’s renewable energy potential — particularly in solar and wind power — provides an ideal platform for European investors looking to partner in large-scale sustainable projects.

A Vision for a Prosperous Future

King Abdullah’s European visit is widely viewed as a turning point for Jordan-EU relations, one that could usher in a new era of mutual prosperity and shared progress.

By strengthening diplomatic dialogue and promoting inclusive growth, Jordan continues to enhance its global standing as a stable, forward-looking nation in a region often marked by uncertainty.

As the King’s tour continues, optimism remains high that the renewed partnerships forged during this visit will bring meaningful economic gains, foster innovation, and reinforce Jordan’s enduring role as a beacon of peace and cooperation in the Middle East.

The discussions focused on coordinated efforts to ensure security, governance, reconstruction, and humanitarian aid, emphasizing a shared vision for a stable and prosperous Gaza.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said the Paris meeting provided a platform for countries to outline their contributions and commitments to Gaza’s recovery.

“We discussed the major fields to which we intend to contribute: security, governance, reconstruction, and humanitarian aid,” Barrot told reporters. “These contributions will be shared with the United States so they can be integrated into broader peace efforts.”

The meeting included prominent figures from Europe and the Arab world, such as Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, and Turkey’s Foreign Minister, all of whom were instrumental in facilitating the recent ceasefire.

EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas described the gathering as a critical opportunity to build on the ceasefire and move toward lasting peace. “This is the best chance we have right now,” she said. “We must work together to ensure the plan is sustainable for the future.”

A key topic of discussion was the creation of an international stabilisation force, which would operate under a United Nations mandate to monitor the ceasefire, assist in the disarmament of Hamas, and support the transfer of security responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority.

Countries including Indonesia, Italy, and Azerbaijan expressed interest in joining the mission. Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani noted, “We want to be major players—not just in security—but also in reconstruction, to help Gaza rebuild for a better tomorrow.”

The discussions also included detailed proposals to train and equip 10,000 Palestinian Authority security personnel in a phased approach. This plan aims to strengthen local governance while providing stability across Gaza.

France and Britain have already initiated talks at the United Nations on a possible mandate for the multinational stabilisation force, reflecting the strong international commitment to a secure and peaceful Gaza.

The United Nations Assembly recently endorsed a declaration outlining steps toward a two-state solution, condemning violence, and urging Hamas to disarm.

European and Arab officials said the Paris meeting was essential to fill gaps in the U.S.-led peace plan and ensure that the ceasefire evolves into a sustainable peace with tangible results on the ground.

Diplomatic sources highlighted that the success of the plan would depend on joint international action, combining efforts in security, reconstruction, and governance.

By leveraging the expertise and resources of multiple countries, the initiative seeks to empower Gaza’s local population, rebuild critical infrastructure, and provide essential humanitarian aid.

The Paris talks reflect a new era of proactive diplomacy, where European and Arab partners work side by side with the United States to support post-war recovery.

The discussions also focused on practical strategies for reconstruction, including restoring essential services, reviving economic activity, and enhancing governance structures to prevent future conflicts.

Officials emphasized that the coordinated plan will prioritize long-term stability and sustainable development in Gaza, ensuring that humanitarian needs are met while creating conditions for economic growth and social cohesion.

By fostering collaboration between multiple countries, the initiative is designed to deliver meaningful and measurable improvements for residents of Gaza.

The commitment to reconstruction also includes financial support, technical assistance, and capacity building to ensure that Gaza can stand on its own in the future.

European and Arab partners are preparing to invest in projects that strengthen local institutions, improve public services, and provide opportunities for education and employment.

The Paris meeting sends a strong signal that the international community is united in its vision for a peaceful, secure, and thriving Gaza.

By combining diplomacy, reconstruction efforts, and security measures, European and Arab nations aim to create a sustainable framework for stability that can endure well beyond the current ceasefire.

With continued collaboration and active engagement from multiple countries, Gaza’s future can be marked by security, prosperity, and hope, demonstrating the power of multilateral diplomacy to transform post-conflict recovery into lasting peace.

The accord would mark a major foreign policy victory for Trump, who has pledged to bring resolution to protracted global conflicts including those in Gaza and Ukraine.

Israeli hostages held in Gaza may be released as early as Saturday under a U.S.-brokered plan aimed at ending the devastating war in the enclave, according to a source familiar with the agreement. The Israeli military is expected to complete the first stage of a partial withdrawal from Gaza within 24 hours of the deal being signed.

The formal signing of the ceasefire agreement, which constitutes the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace initiative for Gaza, is scheduled for Thursday at noon Israel time (0900 GMT), the source said.

The deal comes amid cautious optimism and widespread relief across both Israel and the Palestinian territories after Trump announced late Wednesday that Israel and Hamas had reached consensus on a ceasefire and hostage release plan — a move that could mark the most significant diplomatic breakthrough since the war erupted two years ago.

A war that reshaped the Middle East

The conflict, which began following the October 7, 2023 Hamas attacks, has left more than 67,000 people dead in Gaza, according to local authorities, and has drawn in regional actors including Iran, Yemen, and Lebanon.

Israel’s assault flattened much of the coastal strip, while sparking growing global condemnation over what rights experts and a U.N. inquiry have described as possible genocide — an accusation Israel strongly denies, maintaining its operations constitute self-defense.

“Thank God for the ceasefire, the end of bloodshed and killing,” said Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo, speaking from the southern Gaza city of Khan Younis. “All of Gaza is happy, all Arab people are happy, and the world is happy with the end of the bloodshed.”

Despite the jubilation, analysts warn that the agreement remains fragile, lacking clarity on several core issues including post-war governance of Gaza and the long-term fate of Hamas.

Trump announces breakthrough

“I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first phase of our Peace Plan,” Trump said on Truth Social. “This means that all of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their troops to an agreed line as the first steps toward a strong, durable, and everlasting peace.”

If successfully implemented, the accord would mark a major foreign policy victory for Trump, who has pledged to bring resolution to protracted global conflicts including those in Gaza and Ukraine.

“This deal brings us closer than any previous effort to halting a war that has engulfed the region,” a senior Western diplomat involved in the talks told Al Arabiya English on condition of anonymity. “But much will depend on how both sides implement the next steps.”

Netanyahu hails ‘national victory’

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his government would convene on Thursday to formally approve the plan.

“With the approval of the first phase of the plan, all our hostages will be brought home,” Netanyahu said in a statement. “This is a diplomatic success and a national and moral victory for the State of Israel.”

The conflict, which saw Israel assassinate top leaders of Hamas, Hezbollah, and several Iranian commanders, has redrawn the Middle East’s political landscape. Yet Israel has faced unprecedented global backlash over the scale of civilian casualties and destruction in Gaza.

Under the new accord, Israel is to withdraw troops from specific areas of Gaza while maintaining “security control” along agreed buffer zones. In exchange, Hamas is expected to release all surviving hostages, with their return to begin within 72 hours of the agreement’s ratification.

Hostage release expected within days

Families of hostages gathered in Hostages Square in Tel Aviv to welcome the announcement, many waving Israeli flags and holding photos of their loved ones.

“President Trump, thank you very much,” said Hatan Angrest, whose son Matan is among those still held. “Our children would not be coming home without your help.”

According to a Hamas source, living hostages will be handed over within 72 hours of the deal’s approval, while recovery of the bodies of deceased hostages — believed to number about 28 — “will take longer” due to the extensive destruction in Gaza.

Trump told Fox News’ “Hannity” program that hostages could be released by Monday, adding that coordination was underway with Qatari and Egyptian mediators to oversee the exchange.

Israeli officials say 1,200 people were killed and 251 taken hostage during the Hamas-led cross-border assault in 2023. Of the 48 hostages confirmed to remain in Gaza, around 20 are believed to still be alive.

Hamas confirms deal includes withdrawal, prisoner exchange

Hamas confirmed in a statement that it had agreed to the terms of the ceasefire, which include an Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and a hostage-prisoner exchange.

“We affirm that the sacrifices of our people will not be in vain,” Hamas said. “We will remain true to our pledge — never abandoning our people’s national rights until freedom, independence, and self-determination are achieved.”

In the southern city of Khan Younis, Palestinian resident Khaled Shaat described the news as “historic.”

“These are long-awaited moments after two years of killing and genocide that were committed against the Palestinian people,” he said.

However, several key aspects of the deal remain unresolved — particularly who will govern Gaza once Israeli troops withdraw and whether Hamas will retain any administrative or security role.

Post-war governance unclear

The next phase of Trump’s 20-point framework envisions the creation of an international oversight body led by the U.S. and including former British Prime Minister Tony Blair to help manage Gaza’s post-war transition. The body would coordinate reconstruction, security, and humanitarian operations during a two-year interim period.

But Hamas has rejected any foreign administration, saying it would only accept a Palestinian technocratic government under the supervision of the Palestinian Authority and backed by Arab and Muslim countries.

“We will not accept foreign rule or trusteeship over Gaza,” a Hamas political official told Al Arabiya English. “Gaza’s future must be decided by Palestinians.”

Arab states insist on path to Palestinian statehood

Several Arab governments that have quietly backed the Trump plan said any long-term settlement must pave the way toward the establishment of an independent Palestinian state.

“Peace will not be sustainable without addressing the core issue — Palestinian sovereignty,” a senior Arab diplomat said. “Any arrangement that ignores this will eventually fail.”

Israeli officials, however, have reiterated that no Palestinian state will be established under Netanyahu’s government. The Israeli leader has repeatedly stated that his priority remains ensuring “complete demilitarization of Gaza” and preventing Hamas or any other armed group from re-emerging.

Economic and regional impact

News of the potential ceasefire triggered a sharp fall in global oil prices, as investors welcomed reduced risk to supply chains amid fears of a wider Middle East escalation. Analysts noted that a sustained truce could ease regional tensions and reopen diplomatic channels between Israel and Arab states that had been strained since the war began.

“This is a significant de-escalation signal,” said an energy strategist in Dubai. “Markets are responding to the likelihood that the most immediate source of instability — the Gaza war — may finally be nearing its end.”

Skepticism remains

Despite the optimism, observers cautioned that previous ceasefire efforts have repeatedly collapsed, often within days of being declared.

“The fact that this deal has been brokered directly through Washington gives it weight,” said a former Israeli intelligence official. “But without guarantees from Egypt and Qatar — and without addressing Hamas’s long-term status — it could unravel quickly.”

Trump and Netanyahu spoke by phone late Wednesday, congratulating each other on what both described as a “historic achievement.” Netanyahu’s office said the Israeli leader had invited Trump to address the Knesset following the official signing ceremony.

For war-weary civilians on both sides, the agreement offers a rare glimmer of hope — though uncertainty lingers over what will follow.

“People in Gaza have lost everything,” said a humanitarian worker in Rafah. “If this ceasefire holds, it will be the first real chance in years for families to rebuild their lives — but peace will need more than a pause in fighting.”

The high-level meeting, part of the UAE leader’s official visit to Kuwait, underscored the enduring friendship and strategic partnership between the two Gulf nations, highlighting their commitment to collaboration, regional stability, and mutual prosperity.

The discussions focused on strengthening the deep-rooted ties between the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait, reflecting decades of close diplomatic, economic, and cultural relations.

Both leaders expressed a shared vision of enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors, including trade, investment, energy, education, and innovation, emphasizing that the UAE-Kuwait partnership continues to serve as a model for regional collaboration in the Gulf.

Central to the talks was the examination of recent regional and international developments. Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad reaffirmed their support for initiatives that promote peace and security in the Middle East, particularly concerning the Gaza Strip.

Both leaders emphasized that a just and comprehensive resolution, rooted in the two-state solution, remains the only path to lasting stability and the fulfillment of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people. Their shared commitment reflects the UAE’s and Kuwait’s proactive diplomatic engagement and dedication to constructive dialogue, positioning them as key players in fostering regional peace.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of building on the growing international recognition of the State of Palestine to advance peace efforts. By stressing diplomatic and political solutions, the leaders showcased their dedication to supporting initiatives that promote dialogue, humanitarian assistance, and development, aiming to ensure that peace and stability are sustained in the region.

This approach reinforces the UAE and Kuwait’s role as responsible partners on the international stage, advocating for fairness, coexistence, and long-term solutions to ongoing conflicts.

In addition to regional issues, the two leaders explored opportunities to further strengthen Gulf cooperation. They reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and its initiatives, emphasizing the importance of economic integration, security collaboration, and cultural exchange to meet the aspirations of Gulf citizens.

Their discussions reflected a shared understanding that regional unity and collective development are essential for prosperity, innovation, and sustainable growth across member states.

The UAE-Kuwait dialogue also touched upon joint projects and initiatives that underscore the depth of their cooperation. From investments in renewable energy and infrastructure to collaborative efforts in education, healthcare, and technology, the two countries are actively working to create a framework that ensures mutual benefit while contributing to regional advancement.

These strategic discussions signal a renewed commitment to transforming challenges into opportunities through cooperation, innovation, and strategic planning.

Overall, the meeting between Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed and Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad reinforced the spirit of brotherhood, shared responsibility, and visionary leadership. It highlighted both nations’ commitment to fostering peace, supporting sustainable development, and enhancing their strategic partnership.

The UAE and Kuwait continue to set a benchmark for regional diplomacy, exemplifying how collaboration, dialogue, and shared values can drive meaningful progress in the Gulf and beyond.

In a joint statement, the foreign ministers of the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkey, Qatar and Egypt said they supported steps announced by Hamas, including the release of hostages — alive or deceased — and the group’s readiness to transfer administration of Gaza to a transitional Palestinian committee of independent technocrats.

The ministers also endorsed President Trump’s call on Israel to halt its military campaign and begin implementing an exchange agreement linked to the proposal. They described the US leader’s commitment to peace as “an opportunity to achieve a ceasefire and address the critical conditions facing the people of Gaza”.

The ministers urged the launch of immediate negotiations to agree on practical mechanisms for implementing the plan. They stressed the need for unrestricted humanitarian aid deliveries, the prevention of Palestinian displacement, and guarantees for the security of civilians.

The joint statement also called for the return of the Palestinian Authority to Gaza and efforts to unify governance across Gaza and the West Bank.

The ministers underlined that any agreement must include a security mechanism to protect all sides, ensure a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and pave the way for reconstruction. They reiterated support for a “just peace” based on the two-state solution.

The statement marks a rare moment of regional alignment on Gaza’s future, though much depends on whether the proposal gains traction with Israel and key international stakeholders.

“Coming from a medical background, I’m naturally optimistic,” Al-Rabeeah told Arab News on the sidelines of the 80th UN General Assembly in New York. “With increasing acceptance of Palestine by many countries, particularly in the West, we are moving closer to achieving a durable solution.”

The High-Level International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France, led to the adoption of the New York Declaration—a comprehensive roadmap outlining timebound, actionable steps to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Endorsed by the UN General Assembly with overwhelming support, the declaration provides a multi-dimensional framework covering political governance, security, humanitarian assistance, economic recovery, and legal accountability. Key measures include an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, reunification with the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority (excluding Hamas), a temporary UN-led stabilization mission, and a halt to Israeli settlement expansion.

“The people of Palestine have endured immense suffering for many years,” Al-Rabeeah said. “The two-state solution remains the only viable path for long-term peace and a brighter future for Palestinians.”

Al-Rabeeah also highlighted global humanitarian challenges, ahead of a high-level UN meeting on displaced populations. With over 130 million people displaced worldwide and donor fatigue threatening aid efforts, he called for renewed international commitment.

“We face multiple crises — in Sudan, Ukraine, Somalia, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and beyond,” he noted. “This meeting is essential to highlight the urgency of resolving ongoing crises, preventing new ones, and ensuring a better future for refugees and displaced communities.”

The development signals a potential shift in the group’s posture amid increasing diplomatic momentum and heightened security concerns for its leadership.

Among those reportedly ordered to disarm are high-ranking figures central to Hamas’s military, financial, and diplomatic operations:

Khalil al-Hayya, head of Hamas’s negotiating delegation,

Zaher Jabarin, the group’s chief financier, and

Muhammad Ismail Darwish, head of the religious council and liaison to Turkey and Iran.

According to Israeli media outlet Ynet, al-Hayya, who has been a key figure in hostage negotiations, has become acutely concerned for his safety since Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz publicly named him as the next assassination target.

These fears have reportedly influenced al-Hayya’s stance at the negotiation table. Insiders say he has now expressed openness to the latest ceasefire draft and is no longer opposing a temporary truce—a marked departure from earlier Hamas demands for a total end to the war before any hostage release.

Qatar’s reported demand that al-Hayya and his security team surrender their weapons has further deepened his sense of vulnerability. Analysts suggest that this disarmament may improve the chances of Hamas accepting the proposed ceasefire, which includes phased hostage releases in exchange for a halt in hostilities.

Israeli officials have expressed cautious optimism. “There is cause for hope,” a senior official in Jerusalem said, echoing similar sentiments from international diplomats who believe that a resolution may finally be within reach.

“There’s a big opportunity right now,” one diplomat briefed on the negotiations told the Associated Press. “The signals we’re getting show that people are ready.”

The diplomat added that former U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent sharp criticism of Israel has inadvertently emboldened Hamas by suggesting that Washington may now act as a more assertive guarantor in any future deal—something Hamas has long demanded.

Meanwhile, sources close to Hamas told Saudi daily Al Akhbar that the group was “satisfied” with new language added to the ceasefire proposal. The updated version reportedly includes stronger guarantees to end the war—an essential condition for Hamas to accept any deal.

A formal response from Hamas is expected by Friday. However, the nature and scope of American guarantees remain undisclosed.

Israeli officials have downplayed the significance of these foreign assurances.

“Israel is not bound by commitments made by the United States or any mediator,” one official stated.

The high-level statement came just days after Israel launched preemptive strikes on Iranian military installations—an operation it claims was aimed at preventing Tehran from advancing toward nuclear weapon capabilities. Iran responded with retaliatory attacks, triggering a new phase in the already volatile regional dynamics since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023.

“We affirm that Israel has a right to defend itself. We reiterate our support for the security of Israel,” read the G7 communiqué, which also emphasized that “Iran is the principal source of regional instability and terror.”

The leaders of the G7—comprising the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and Japan—also reiterated a critical demand: “Iran can never be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon.”

Rising Death Toll and Escalation Fears

The conflict has already resulted in tragic civilian casualties. Iranian sources report over 220 deaths, including women and children, while Israel has confirmed 24 civilian fatalities. Both sides have accused each other of targeting civilian infrastructure, heightening fears of further escalation.

On Monday, an Israeli airstrike reportedly targeted Iran’s state broadcaster headquarters, intensifying panic among Tehran’s residents. U.S. President Donald Trump, attending the G7 summit in Canada, abruptly announced his early departure to return to Washington, citing the urgent regional developments.

In a social media post, Trump warned: “Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran.”

U.S. Stance: Awareness Without Involvement?

While the United States has publicly distanced itself from direct involvement in the Israeli operations, Trump admitted that Washington had prior knowledge of the strikes and called them “excellent.” Nevertheless, the U.S. has issued stern warnings to Iran not to retaliate against American personnel or assets stationed in the region.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio held a series of calls with foreign counterparts in Europe to coordinate diplomatic responses and assess regional fallout. Despite the heated tensions, Washington maintains that it still seeks a nuclear agreement with Iran—underscoring the fragile balance between deterrence and diplomacy.

Nuclear Standoff: Two Realities

Iran has long denied ambitions to build nuclear weapons, insisting its nuclear activities are for peaceful energy purposes as permitted under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), to which it is a signatory.

In contrast, Israel—while not a party to the NPT—is widely believed to possess an undeclared nuclear arsenal. It neither confirms nor denies this status, maintaining a policy of strategic ambiguity.

Call for Regional De-escalation and Gaza Ceasefire

Beyond the immediate hostilities between Israel and Iran, the G7 emphasized the need for a broader ceasefire across the Middle East, including Gaza.

“We urge that the resolution of the Iranian crisis leads to a broader de-escalation of hostilities in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement read.

The G7 also expressed readiness to collaborate in ensuring energy market stability, amid concerns that the conflict could disrupt global oil supply lines and inflate prices.

As tensions remain high, international observers warn that without swift and strategic diplomacy, the Israel-Iran showdown could spiral into a multi-front conflict with far-reaching global implications.

The plan, reportedly backed by US President Donald Trump and coordinated with Egypt and Qatar, outlines a phased truce that would begin with the release of 28 Israeli hostages—both alive and deceased—within the first week. In exchange, Israel would release 125 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences, along with the return of the remains of 180 Palestinians killed during the conflict.

According to the proposal, humanitarian aid shipments would begin flowing into the besieged Gaza Strip immediately upon Hamas’ endorsement of the ceasefire agreement.

The next stage of the plan includes the release of the remaining 30 Israeli hostages after a permanent ceasefire is secured. The White House confirmed Thursday that Israel has agreed to the terms outlined in the proposal, marking a potential breakthrough in negotiations that have remained stalled for months.

Deep Disputes Remain

Hamas, which has been reviewing the proposal, is expected to issue a response by Friday or Saturday. Despite hopes of progress, significant gaps remain between both sides.

Israel has maintained that it will not agree to a permanent ceasefire unless Hamas is fully dismantled and disarmed, and all hostages are returned. Hamas, however, has consistently rejected demands to surrender its weapons and has insisted on a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and an end to the war.

War’s Heavy Toll

The conflict began after Hamas launched a surprise assault on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, according to Israeli figures. In response, Israel initiated a massive military campaign in Gaza that has since claimed the lives of more than 54,000 Palestinians, according to health authorities in the enclave.

The war has devastated Gaza, leaving large swathes in ruins and displacing hundreds of thousands of civilians. Humanitarian organizations continue to warn of catastrophic conditions, especially amid limited access to medical care, clean water, and essential supplies.

Next Steps

While the US proposal marks one of the most detailed plans for a cessation of hostilities to date, success hinges on Hamas’ acceptance and the ability of mediators to bridge the core disagreements. International observers are watching closely to see whether this ceasefire plan will finally bring an end to one of the deadliest conflicts in the region’s recent history.