U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday, July 1, that Israel has agreed to terms for a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza, urging Hamas to accept the deal or face harsher consequences. Trump made the declaration ahead of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s upcoming visit to the White House for high-level talks.
Trump emphasized that his representatives had a “long and productive” meeting with Israeli officials, culminating in what he called the necessary conditions for a ceasefire. He added that Qatar and Egypt would deliver the final proposal to Hamas.
“For the good of the Middle East, I hope Hamas takes this deal, because it will not get better — it will only get worse,” Trump warned, indicating the deal is his best and final offer.
Despite Trump’s optimism, Hamas may remain skeptical. Previous efforts to secure long-term ceasefires have failed due to disagreements over whether a truce should mark the end of the war. Hamas has demanded a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza in exchange for the release of remaining hostages — around 50 — some of whom are believed to be dead. Israel, on the other hand, insists the war will only end if Hamas disarms, surrenders, and goes into exile.
Trump’s announcement comes amid escalating humanitarian concerns. Over 150 aid organizations, including Amnesty International and Save the Children, condemned the Israeli and U.S.-backed aid distribution system in Gaza. Their call to dismantle the chaotic system followed reports of deadly violence at aid sites and the killing of at least 10 Palestinians seeking food.
Simultaneously, Israeli airstrikes continued, with at least 37 people reported dead in Khan Younis. Palestinian witnesses described missiles hitting tents sheltering displaced civilians.
In Washington, Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer met with U.S. officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, to discuss the ceasefire and regional security, especially concerning Iran. Tensions remain high after a recent missile launch from Yemen, which Israel blamed on Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
Trump expressed confidence that a deal could be finalized by next week. “He wants to,” Trump said of Netanyahu, suggesting the Israeli leader is ready to reach an agreement.
The proposed truce is seen as a potential turning point in the 21-month conflict that has claimed over 56,000 lives in Gaza.
