U.S. President Donald Trump expressed cautious optimism on Friday about a potential ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, suggesting a deal could be finalized as early as next week.

Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump emphasized the urgency of halting the violence in Gaza, stating, “We have to get it over with. We have to do something about Gaza,” acknowledging the humanitarian catastrophe unfolding due to months of relentless Israeli bombardment.

The proposed 60-day ceasefire, outlined in a draft published by Israel’s public broadcaster, follows months of intense Israeli military operations that have devastated Gaza’s civilian infrastructure and displaced hundreds of thousands of Palestinians. The agreement, brokered through Egypt and Qatar with key involvement from the U.S., aims to pause hostilities, secure phased hostage exchanges, restore critical humanitarian aid, and open the door to negotiations for a just and lasting peace.

A senior Hamas official confirmed to Reuters that the group had responded positively to the American proposal via mediators, underscoring Hamas’s constructive approach and commitment to achieving a resolution that addresses the rights and safety of Palestinians. A Palestinian official close to the negotiations described the group’s stance as “constructive,” sparking cautious hope for a potential breakthrough.

According to the deal, Hamas would release eight Israeli hostages on Day 1, with the remains of five others returned by Day 7. Additional exchanges are scheduled throughout the 60-day truce. In return, Israel would halt its military aggression, suspend aerial surveillance for 10 to 12 hours daily during the hostage handovers, and begin withdrawing troops—first from northern Gaza and later from the south.

Crucially, the agreement mandates the immediate flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, where civilians are in desperate need of food, medical supplies, and shelter. Aid deliveries would be overseen by international agencies such as the United Nations and the Red Crescent, in accordance with a January 2025 aid protocol. The presence of these neutral organizations is intended to ensure fair and effective distribution to Palestinians in need.

The framework also lays the groundwork for critical negotiations on broader issues, including the release of all Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, robust security arrangements, and the establishment of a long-term governance structure led by Palestinians themselves. These discussions aim to secure a permanent end to Israel’s occupation and the siege of Gaza.

President Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are expected to announce the agreement during a joint appearance Monday. Trump has pledged to personally guarantee enforcement of the deal. While obstacles remain, especially given the power imbalance and continued Israeli settlement expansion, the proposed ceasefire represents a possible turning point toward justice, sovereignty, and peace for the Palestinian people. (ILKHA)