Gaza Truce Talks Stuck, but U.S. Eyes Deal

Second‑Week Gaza Ceasefire Talks Stall

Israeli air strikes on Monday intensified after a weekend of stalled negotiations in Doha. More than 20 civilians were killed in Gaza City and the southern town of Khan Yunis.

Key Points

• 22 deaths reported by Gaza’s civil defence agency.
• One tent strike on Sunday targeted the family of a young boy who survived by staying outside.
• Palestinian militant Belal al‑Adlouni called for retaliation, vowing that the loss will not be forgotten.
• U.S. President Donald Trump remains optimistic, saying a truce is possible within the next week.
• Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu insists a lasting ceasefire is only a future option if Hamas lays down its weapons.
• Hamas rejected Israel’s proposal to keep troops in over 40% of Gaza and plans to relocate Palestinians into an enclave on the Egypt border.
• Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar and Palestinian minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin headed to Brussels for EU talks, but the Palestinian Authority denied that any meeting was scheduled.

Background Context

In October 2023, Hamas launched a deadly attack on Israel, leading to both hostages and heavy civilian casualties. 1,219 people were killed in Israel, most civilians, and 251 hostages were taken, with 49 still held and 27 considered dead by Israeli forces.

Israel’s retaliatory air campaigns have killed over 58,000 Palestinians in Gaza, according to the health ministry of Hamas‑run Gaza.

Current Challenges

Netanyahu faces political pressure to end the war quickly as military casualties mount and public frustration grows over hostage captivity and a perceived lack of progress. His fragile coalition is believed to be guided by far‑right ministers who oppose a prolonged conflict.

Israel is also evaluating a proposal to construct a “humanitarian city” in southern Gaza to accommodate displaced Palestinians if a ceasefire materializes. The United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees dubbed the proposal a “concentration camp,” and Israel’s security establishment reportedly opposed the plan.

Conclusion

As negotiations in Doha appear deadlocked, Israeli strikes on Monday caused significant civilian casualties, while the U.S. remains hopeful of a breakthrough. The next week will be crucial for both sides as they navigate the political and humanitarian implications of a potential ceasefire.