How much is currently known about the newest effort to secure a Gaza cease-fire?

Trump Floats a 60-Day Pause

Earlier this week, US President Donald Trump urged Hamas to accept a 60-day halt to the fighting in Gaza, adding that Israel had already signed on. After nearly 21 months of conflict in the enclave—and only days after Israel’s swift 12-day confrontation with Iran ended—Trump’s push has revived hopes for what would be a third Gaza cease-fire.

Why Hamas Is Still Hesitating

Repeated rounds of indirect negotiations have stumbled over one central issue: Hamas insists on a lasting cessation of hostilities.

In a statement on Wednesday, the group said it was still weighing the plan and demanded guarantees that Israeli attacks would stop, Israeli troops would withdraw, and humanitarian aid could flow freely into Gaza.

Hugh Lovatt of the European Council on Foreign Relations believes Hamas might bend if it decides “this is the best deal available for the foreseeable future,” yet he notes sizeable gaps remain—especially over a pathway to end the war permanently, re-open Gaza to relief, and ensure an Israeli pull-out.

Andreas Krieg of King’s College London adds that Hamas’s distrust of Israel, after previous truces collapsed, means the movement will want watertight assurances before it signs.

Israeli Politics: Netanyahu’s Balancing Act

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday repeated his vow to “destroy” Hamas, reaffirming Israel’s goal of eliminating the group in response to its 7 October 2023 attack. Far-right figures such as National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir have demanded an even harsher Gaza campaign, including full occupation and the “transfer” of Palestinians.

Yet analysts say Netanyahu may now have more room to compromise. Krieg points out that, after Israel’s perceived “win” over Iran, the prime minister’s approval ratings are climbing, and senior military leaders are pressing for an exit strategy in Gaza. Lovatt adds that the key question is whether Netanyahu’s political calculus—so far tilted toward prolonging the war to keep his coalition intact—has started to shift.

The Leverage of Washington

Trump is scheduled to host Netanyahu at the White House next Monday and has pledged to be “very firm” on ending the Gaza war, even predicting a cease-fire could be in place “sometime next week.”

Lovatt argues that Washington holds the decisive cards: “When Trump puts his foot down, he can use his relationship with Netanyahu and America’s support for Israel to exact concessions.” Krieg agrees, noting the United States can apply “aid, arms, and diplomatic cover” as levers. Still, he cautions that Israel will only move if the proposal aligns with its core interests—meaning sustained, calibrated US pressure is essential for any durable deal.