President Donald Trump said Tuesday that a ceasefire deal in Gaza could be reached by the end of the week, as negotiations enter their final stages.
Trump’s envoy Steve Witkoff said talks in Doha have resolved three of four sticking points, with hostages set to be released in the proposed 60-day truce.
.@SEPeaceMissions Steve Witkoff: "We're in proximity talks now ... we are hopeful that by the end of this week, we will have an agreement that will bring us into a 60-day ceasefire. Ten live hostages will be released ... we think that this will lead to a lasting peace in Gaza." pic.twitter.com/AO1SISGvuE
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) July 8, 2025
Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met twice in 24 hours to push forward the agreement. The final hurdle remains the Israeli military’s withdrawal map from Gaza, a deeply contested issue. Israel seeks to retain control over the Philadelphi Corridor; Hamas is demanding a full withdrawal and permanent ceasefire guarantees.
Witkoff is expected to fly to Qatar to participate in the talks. Hamas has signaled support for the deal, pending minor adjustments. “We think we’ve gotten closer,” Netanyahu said, while Trump added, “Hopefully with a real solution… that’s going to be holding up.”
