Trump and Netanyahu in Washington today .. Is a Gaza ceasefire on the horizon?

In their third meeting in six months since his return to the presidency, US President Donald Trump will receive Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu today, Monday, at the White House in an attempt to boost efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza and achieve an agreement on the release of Palestinian detainees.

Netanyahu, who headed to Washington yesterday, affirmed that the talks with Trump will support the ongoing negotiations for a ceasefire, emphasizing that Israeli negotiators have clear instructions to reach an agreement on Israeli terms.

He said: "I am determined to ensure the return of detainees in Gaza and eliminate the threat of Hamas."

Meanwhile, Trump expressed optimism about the possibility of reaching an agreement this week, telling reporters: "I believe there is a good chance to reach an agreement with Hamas that allows the release of a significant number of hostages and a ceasefire."

Pressure is mounting on Netanyahu from within the Israeli government coalition, where Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi supports a permanent ceasefire, while some hardline members oppose this direction.

Hamas described its response to the US-backed ceasefire proposal as "positive," following Trump's announcement days ago that Israel had agreed to the final conditions of a 60-day ceasefire.

At the same time, Netanyahu emphasizes the necessity of disarming Hamas, a condition the armed movement vehemently rejects.

Netanyahu and Trump also affirmed their determination to build peace and expand stability in the Middle East, especially in light of recent developments related to the 12-day airstrike targeting Iran last month.

It is worth noting that the war broke out after a Hamas attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of about 1,200 Israelis and the detention of 251 people in Gaza.

In contrast, Palestinian reports indicate the deaths of over 57,000 Palestinians, displacement of all sector residents, and widespread destruction.

Currently, it is believed that around 20 detainees are still alive, amidst diplomatic and military efforts to extract them from the sector, while the majority of detainees have been released through negotiation agreements.

The anticipated meeting between Trump and Netanyahu today is being closely watched globally, with hopes that it will be an effective step towards ending the conflict and alleviating the suffering of civilians in Gaza.