Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has indicated that a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza could be reached within days. He believes this potential truce would open the door for the release of a group of captives still held by Hamas. According to him, the temporary halt in hostilities might also be an opportunity to work toward a broader resolution to the ongoing conflict, although he emphasized that such progress would depend on whether Hamas agrees to lay down its arms.
Netanyahu stated that around 50 captives remain in Gaza, with 20 confirmed to be alive. The remaining 30 are believed to have died during the conflict or in captivity. The possible truce and hostage deal appear to be part of renewed efforts to ease tensions and bring some relief to both sides of the devastating war.
Reports suggest that Hamas is prepared to release 10 Israeli captives as part of the arrangement. However, negotiations remain strained, with Hamas describing the talks as difficult, citing what they see as Israel’s uncompromising stance. Despite this, there are signs that both sides may be edging closer to an agreement that could at least temporarily end the violence.
The proposed ceasefire would mark a significant moment in a conflict that has dragged on for months, causing widespread devastation in Gaza and heavy casualties on both sides. A truce of this length would offer humanitarian agencies a rare window to deliver aid to the besieged population in the Gaza Strip and allow for the repair of critical infrastructure.
While the prospect of a temporary peace is welcomed by many, it remains uncertain whether it will lead to a long-term solution. Netanyahu has made it clear that Israel’s military campaign could resume if Hamas does not agree to disarm, leaving the possibility of future conflict open. The ceasefire, in his view, would be a test of Hamas’s willingness to pursue peace and coexistence.
The humanitarian toll of the war has been immense, with thousands killed and many more injured or displaced. Gaza’s infrastructure has been severely damaged, and shortages of basic supplies like food, water, and medicine have pushed the population into a deep crisis. Aid organizations have repeatedly called for extended ceasefires to enable them to operate effectively in the area.
In this context, even a 60-day pause in fighting could bring significant, if temporary, relief. Families of the captives have also expressed hope that an agreement will finally bring their loved ones home, or at least provide clarity about their fate.
While optimism remains cautious, the developments suggest that diplomacy may still hold a path forward. Yet, without deeper commitments from both parties, any truce may ultimately prove fragile and short-lived.
