Washington D.C. – July 10, 2025 –
By ; Christian Megan
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded a second day of high-stakes discussions at the White House yesterday with President Donald Trump, focused intently on achieving a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While no immediate breakthrough was announced, both leaders expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of a deal in the near future, even as significant sticking points remain.
The series of meetings, which included a dinner between the two leaders, marked Netanyahu’s third state visit to the U.S. since Trump’s second term began. The talks underscore the urgent international efforts to halt the hostilities that have ravaged Gaza for over 21 months.
Key Points of Discussion and Remaining Obstacles
Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that the core objective of these White House meetings was to push forward the ongoing proximity talks between Israel and Hamas, mediated by Qatar and the United States. While U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, had expressed hope for a deal this week, his decision to push back his flight to Doha where the proximity talks are held suggests that substantial progress is still needed.
A proposed 60-day ceasefire deal is reportedly on the table, which would involve a phased release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinian prisoners. Reports suggest that Hamas has agreed to release 10 living Israeli captives as part of this initial phase, along with the bodies of nine deceased. However, critical disagreements persist, notably:
*Israeli Military Presence in Gaza:
Israel’s insistence on maintaining troops within Gaza, particularly in strategic corridors like the “Morag corridor,” during and after any truce remains a major obstacle. Hamas is adamantly opposed to any lasting Israeli military presence in the enclave, demanding a full withdrawal of Israeli forces.
* Duration of Ceasefire and Permanent End to Hostilities: Hamas has consistently demanded a permanent ceasefire as a prerequisite for any hostage release. Israel, while willing to agree to a temporary truce, has stressed its commitment to eliminating Hamas’s military and governing capabilities and ensuring Gaza no longer poses a threat. The U.S. has reportedly assured mediators that it will not allow Israel to resume fighting after a 60-day ceasefire, even if not explicitly stated in the deal’s text.
* Flow of Humanitarian Aid:
The unhindered and safe entry of desperately needed humanitarian aid into Gaza remains a key demand from Hamas and a critical component of any ceasefire agreement.
* Identities of Prisoners:
While progress has been made on some foundational issues, the specific identities of Israeli and Palestinian individuals to be released as part of the exchange have yet to be discussed in detail by negotiators.
Statements from Leaders and Officials
Following the meetings, Prime Minister Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s core objectives in Gaza:
“the release of all our hostages, both living and dead; the elimination of Hamas’s military and governing capabilities; and ensuring that Gaza no longer poses a threat to Israel.
“He also acknowledged discussions on the “great victory achieved over Iran,”
referencing recent joint operations between Israel and the U.S.
President Trump, for his part, publicly stated that there is a “very good chance” of a ceasefire deal being reached “this week or next week,” though he qualified this by saying, “There’s nothing definite about war and Gaza.” He emphasized his desire for a ceasefire, peace, and the return of hostages.
A senior Israeli official, speaking anonymously, cast a less optimistic light on the prospect of a permanent ceasefire, stating that while a 60-day truce “might” be possible within a week or two, achieving a lasting settlement is “questionable” without the complete removal of Hamas.
Humanitarian Crisis Deepens Amidst Negotiations
As diplomatic efforts continue, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. Israeli strikes have continued, with reports of dozens of Palestinian casualties, including children at aid sites.
The UN mission in Libya also issued an urgent call for de-escalation in Tripoli amidst reports of military buildup, underscoring broader regional instability.
The coming days will be crucial in determining whether the momentum generated by the White House discussions can translate into a tangible ceasefire agreement, offering a desperately needed respite for the people of Gaza. Mediators in Doha continue their arduous work, attempting to bridge the deep divides that have thus far prevented an end to the devastating conflict.
