Signs of imminent agreement on truce in Gaza

US envoy Steve Witkoff expressed optimism today that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas could be reached before the end of the week, stressing that the fundamental differences between the two sides have been reduced to just one point.

8 July, 2025 22:11

NEWS DESK

US envoy Steve Witkoff hinted today that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is close.

Reuters quoted Witkoff as saying that he hopes to "reach an agreement on a ceasefire in Gaza by the end of this week."

He added, "The contentious issues between Hamas and Israel have been reduced from four to one."

He explained, "We are working to reduce the differences in the Gaza negotiations, and over time, this will be achieved."

Witkoff emphasized, "We seek a lasting peace in Gaza, and what we seek is a genuine resolution of the conflict."

Witkoff's remarks come as US President Donald Trump announced that he will meet later today with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

This will be the second meeting of its kind in less than 24 hours, following their first meeting at the White House on Monday evening.

Trump said on Tuesday: "Netanyahu is coming to the White House later. We will discuss Gaza almost exclusively. We have to get this resolved."

ANHA