U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas might be reached “within the next week,” although he provided no specifics regarding discussions or sources for this claim.
Trump’s remarks, made during a media interaction outside the White House, came as violence in Gaza intensifies and the humanitarian situation worsens. “I think it’s close,” Trump said. “I just spoke to some of the people involved. We think within the next week we’re going to get a ceasefire.” He did not identify who he had spoken with or outline any process for brokering the truce.
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The announcement surprised many, especially as no active negotiations were reported in the region. Al Jazeera’s correspondent in Amman noted that while Trump’s comments might offer hope to people in Gaza, there’s no visible peace effort underway.
Reports suggest Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu might consider a ceasefire if it helps advance normalization talks with Arab countries—an objective championed by Trump. However, Hamas insists that any halt to hostilities must include a complete Israeli withdrawal from recently occupied areas and firm American commitments to ensure compliance with the truce.
Meanwhile, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza has deepened. Nearly 550 Palestinians have reportedly been killed near aid sites since late May, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry. This has drawn condemnation from international organizations. UN Secretary-General António Guterres denounced the killings, stating, “No one should die while trying to find food.”
Investigative reporting by Israeli outlet Haaretz claimed Israeli commanders instructed troops to fire at unarmed civilians seeking aid—an accusation the Israeli leadership has denied, while Gaza officials have labeled the actions “war crimes.” Doctors Without Borders (MSF) also issued a statement, calling the situation “slaughter disguised as aid.”
Trump’s regional envoy, Steve Witkoff—previously involved in ceasefire efforts under President Biden—refused to comment, with his office saying it had no updates to share.
Earlier truce efforts in March fell apart following renewed Israeli airstrikes aimed at pressuring Hamas to release hostages. Since then, Gaza has been under complete blockade, with restricted access to food, fuel, and medical supplies, creating what aid groups describe as a man-made famine.
Despite Trump’s optimistic tone, analysts remain doubtful, citing a lack of tangible diplomatic movement or signs of cooperation from either side involved in the conflict.
