Israel Backs Trump’s Ceasefire Plan to Free 58 Gaza Hostages Amid Hopeful Talks

In a significant step toward peace, Israel has greenlit a ceasefire proposal, crafted with the input of U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and President Donald Trump, aimed at securing the release of 58 hostages held in Gaza for over 600 days. The White House confirmed Israel’s approval, with press secretary Karoline Levitt expressing hope that Hamas will follow suit, paving the way for the hostages’ safe return.

The proposal’s details remain under wraps, but optimism is palpable. State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce noted a sense of "important optimism" despite Hamas’s position remaining unclear. A statement from the terrorist group suggested a framework for a permanent ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces, and increased humanitarian aid, but their commitment is still in question.

Hamas claims the deal involves freeing 10 Israeli hostages and returning bodies in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, though Israel has not confirmed these terms. With 24 hostages believed to be alive, the stakes are high. Among those still held are the bodies of four American-Israelis, including Itay Chen and Judi Weinstein Haggai, taken during the October 7, 2023 attack.

As negotiations continue, the world watches, hoping for a resolution that brings peace and closure to families waiting for their loved ones.