Israel-Hamas Gaza Ceasefire Talks Near Resolution with One Issue Remaining

US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff announced that negotiations between Israel and Hamas have narrowed to a single unresolved issue, raising hopes for a 60-day ceasefire agreement in Gaza by the end of the week. The key sticking point reportedly concerns the status and presence of the Israel Defense Forces inside Gaza, with other major issues like humanitarian aid delivery and US guarantees against unilateral Israeli resumption of conflict largely resolved. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed acceptance of the mediator's proposal and emphasized the need to complete Israel's objectives in Gaza, including freeing hostages and dismantling Hamas's capabilities. President Donald Trump and Netanyahu have met multiple times in Washington to discuss Gaza, with Trump expressing a strong desire to solve the crisis. Meanwhile, talks facilitated by Qatar and Egypt continue, with optimism that an agreement will lead to lasting peace and the release of hostages. Despite progress, the long-term future governance of Gaza remains uncertain, as Israel hints at potentially maintaining a temporary presence to ensure stability.