US President Donald Trump has said there is a "very good chance" of a Gaza ceasefire being reached this week or next, following a second meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington. The focus of their talks was on freeing hostages and halting the 21-month war. Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, revealed that negotiations between Israel and Hamas had narrowed to one final unresolved issue, raising hopes of a 60-day ceasefire involving the release of 19 hostages.

Despite signs of progress, Hamas described the talks in Doha as "difficult," blaming Israeli intransigence for the lack of a breakthrough. The group is demanding unrestricted aid access and a clear commitment to a permanent ceasefire. Palestinian sources also criticized Israel’s delegation for passive participation, while Qatari mediators cautioned that reaching an agreement would still take time.

Meanwhile, Israel’s military continues airstrikes across Gaza, intensifying the humanitarian crisis. Nearly the entire population of Gaza has been displaced, and around 500,000 people are at risk of starvation, according to UN estimates. While Israeli leaders have hinted at a possible breakthrough, Hamas maintains it will not surrender and insists that only a full end to the war can bring lasting peace.