In a surprising diplomatic pivot, Israel has signaled it will cooperate with the Trump administration to bring an end to the war in Gaza—but major questions remain about whether Hamas will ever agree to lay down its arms.
What’s on the Table?
According to a statement released Friday by Israel’s war cabinet, the country is open to U.S.-brokered talks aimed at achieving a “sustainable ceasefire” and a postwar security framework for Gaza . The announcement comes amid mounting international pressure and growing humanitarian concerns in the enclave, where over 2 million people remain trapped in worsening conditions.
While Israel insists that Hamas must be “completely dismantled” as a military and governing force, the militant group has yet to respond publicly to the latest overtures. Analysts say the real sticking point isn’t just disarmament—it’s who would govern Gaza afterward.
Key Uncertainties in the Peace Push
- Hamas’s stance: No official comment on disarmament or negotiations.
- Gaza’s future governance: Israel opposes Palestinian Authority control; U.S. seeks “credible local alternative.”
- Trump administration’s role: Pushing for a deal before year-end, but details remain classified.
- Humanitarian access: Aid groups warn that without a ceasefire, famine risks will escalate.
A Fragile Opening?
The Israeli statement marks a subtle shift from its earlier hardline position that “there will be no ceasefire until Hamas is eradicated.” Now, officials are speaking of “conditional cooperation” with Washington—suggesting internal pressure and battlefield fatigue may be influencing strategy.
Still, trust is in short supply. Hamas has previously rejected disarmament as “surrender,” and many in Gaza view any Israeli-backed governance plan as occupation by another name.
What Comes Next?
Diplomatic sources say U.S. envoys are quietly shuttling between Cairo, Ramallah, and Tel Aviv to test the waters. A senior Trump administration official told The New York Times that “all options are on the table”—including third-party security forces for Gaza, though no country has publicly volunteered.
Meanwhile, on the ground, sporadic airstrikes and ground clashes continue, underscoring how fragile any potential truce remains.
