Trump Proposes Immediate Ceasefire Contingent on Hamas Agreement

In a recent statement, former U.S. President Donald Trump indicated that a ceasefire in the ongoing Gaza conflict could be enacted without delay if the militant group Hamas agrees to a specific withdrawal line for Israeli forces in the region. Trump shared this information via social media platform Truth Social, asserting that Israel has already approved this withdrawal line.

He emphasized that once Hamas consents, the ceasefire would take effect immediately. Following this, there would be provisions for the exchange of hostages and prisoners, laying the groundwork for the next phase of troop withdrawal. Alongside his statement, Trump posted a graphic illustrating the proposed withdrawal line within the Gaza Strip.

In his recently unveiled peace plan intended to conclude the Gaza conflict, Trump did not specify a precise withdrawal line but stated that Israeli forces would retreat to an agreed-upon position to facilitate the release of hostages. Furthermore, he mentioned that during this time, all military operations, including airstrikes and artillery fire, would be halted, and front lines would remain unchanged until conditions for a comprehensive and gradual withdrawal are met.

Shortly before Trump's announcement, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reaffirmed that the Israeli military would reposition itself while retaining control over strategically significant areas deep within the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu asserted that Hamas must be disarmed and the Gaza Strip demilitarized, a process he claimed could be achieved either through diplomatic means, as outlined in Trump's peace plan, or through military action. He asserted, "It will be achieved, whether through a gentle approach or a more forceful one."

While Hamas has shown some willingness to accept parts of Trump's plan, it has not explicitly agreed to the stipulation of disarmament.