May 4, 2025 8:04 pm
Full News

US Officials Express Optimism Over Gaza Ceasefire Deal

US officials have expressed cautious optimism about a potential ceasefire and hostages release deal in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. This marks a significant shift within the Biden administration, which has not shown this level of hope in months, according to sources familiar with the matter.

While no agreement has been finalized, sources indicate a deal could be announced within the final days of President Joe Biden’s term. Both Israel and Hamas, along with mediators, are reportedly working on the final stages of the negotiations. A Hamas official confirmed discussions on a final draft, with mediators being updated on both sides’ positions.

Signs of Progress in Talks

US Deputy National Security Adviser Jon Finer noted “significant progress” but refrained from making definitive predictions. “There is a deal on the table that Hamas should accept,” he said. A Hamas official also stated that an agreement is “very close.”

Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Israel’s commitment to securing a deal. He highlighted ongoing negotiations in Doha, Qatar, and reported “progress” in the discussions.

However, challenges remain. Hamas has demanded Israel withdraw from the Philadelphi corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border and commit to a permanent ceasefire rather than a temporary one. Disagreements also persist over the size of a buffer zone along Gaza’s borders. Hamas seeks a return to pre-October 7 conditions, while Israel advocates for a significantly larger zone.

Hostages and Prisoners

Negotiators are addressing the release of Palestinian prisoners and mapping areas for Israeli withdrawal. Qadura Fares, a Palestinian official, has traveled to Doha to provide advice on the prisoner release list.

Despite the progress, Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich criticized the potential deal, labeling it a “surrender” that compromises national security. Ten members of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s Likud party also expressed concerns, urging Netanyahu to adhere to specific conditions, including the complete return of hostages and preventing mass displacement to northern Gaza.

Broader Political Implications

The negotiations are influenced by US domestic politics. Sources suggest Netanyahu is motivated to maintain alignment with President-elect Donald Trump’s administration, which takes office on January 20. US envoys Brett McGurk and Steve Witkoff, along with National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, are actively involved in resolving the remaining issues.

Sullivan expressed cautious optimism, stating that a deal could be finalized this week. “I’m not making a promise or prediction, but it is there for the taking,” he said.

Humanitarian Toll in Gaza

Since the October 7 Hamas attack on Israel, Gaza has experienced extensive casualties. According to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, Israeli strikes have killed over 46,000 people and injured more than 109,000. Many victims remain trapped under rubble, with rescue efforts hindered by ongoing hostilities. A UK study suggests the actual death toll may be even higher.

Amid relentless bombing, Gaza residents voiced skepticism over the negotiations. Abdul Rahman Salama, whose home was destroyed, called the talks “empty promises.”

As the international community watches, the outcome of these negotiations could mark a turning point in the long-standing conflict, offering hope for a resolution amid immense human suffering.

Related News
The United States Wanted to Halt Aid for Rohingya Refugees
Drug Traffickers Want to Kill Me by Firing a Missile at My Plane: Colombian President
The United States Plans to Lift Sanctions on Russia
Authorities Close Dozens of Tourist Resorts in Indian-Controlled Kashmir Following Deadly Attack 
Indian Megastar Shah Rukh Khan’s “Royal” Birthday Celebration
Former General Michael Flynn Calls for Biden’s Removal, Accuses Biden  of Pushing Toward WWIII
Related Posts
India Halts River Water Flow to Pakistan
International Observatory Condemns Judicial Harassment and Political Discrimination Against Lawyers in Bangladesh
World’s Oldest Doctor Dies at the Age of 129
Bangladesh Sees Unprecedented Media Crackdown Under Dr. Yunus-Led Interim Government: 640 Journalists Targeted in Eight Months, Says RRG Report
Two Bangladeshi-American Citizens Remain Unidentified; National Security Adviser Dr. Khalilur Rahman Confirmed Safe
UN Warns Myanmar Junta May Weaponize Nuclear Power Amid Growing Concerns
More News

Stampede at ‘Pushpa 2’ Premiere: Woman Dead, Child Injured

According to police sources, Allu Arjun and music director Devi Sri Prasad surprised fans at the theatre for the screening attracting large crowds, which led to a stampede A 35-year-old woman died and her nine-year-old son sustained severe injuries in a stampede at Sandhya Theatre in Chikkadpally, Hyderabad, during the premiere show of the Allu […]

NASA Fires 23 Employees, Including Top Scientist

The Trump administration has dismissed 23 officials and employees from NASA, including its chief scientist, Katherine Calvin. According to a report by AFP, NASA spokesperson Cheryl Warner confirmed this development. Warner stated, “A government notice was issued on March 10. After reviewing it, we found that 23 employees, including Katherine Calvin, have been dismissed. More […]

Ceasefire Strains as Hamas Delays Hostage Release, Citing Israeli Breaches

Hamas has announced the postponement of the scheduled hostage release in Gaza this Saturday, attributing the delay to alleged violations by Israel of the ceasefire terms. This development intensifies tensions amid a fragile truce, while the U.S. President Donald Trump’s provocative remarks add further complexity to the situation. Escalating Tensions and Diplomatic Stalemates The ceasefire […]

World’s Largest Iceberg Breaks Free and Drifts Northward After Yearlong Stagnation

The world’s largest iceberg, A23a, is once again on the move after being trapped in a rotating water column for much of 2024. Measuring 3,800 square kilometers (1,500 square miles)—more than twice the size of Greater London—and 400 meters (1,312 feet) thick, A23a is an enormous mass of ice that detached from the Antarctic continent […]

Illegal Bangladeshi Settlers Attack Municipal Staff in Lucknow: Mayor Demands Action, 50 Shanties Demolished

LUCKNOW – On December 29, a mob of 150-200 illegal Bangladeshi settlers attacked municipal workers during an anti-encroachment drive in the Indira Nagar area of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The team, led by municipal supervisor Minakshi, was assaulted by the mob armed with sticks, resulting in several injuries among the officials. The incident began around 7 […]

Super Bowl Attendees Seek Suites for Views of Taylor Swift and Trump

As the highly anticipated Super Bowl in New Orleans approaches, fans are hoping to secure prime seating for an unforgettable view of two high-profile guests: pop sensation Taylor Swift and President Donald Trump. Both are confirmed to attend the game at Caesars Superdome on Sunday, February 9, 2025, but luxury hospitality experts, including Mike Zandman, […]

Latina Makeup: History, Features, and a Symbol of Beauty

Sharmin Jahan Orpi The Origins and History of Latina Makeup Latina makeup is a proud representation of Latin America’s cultural diversity and fashion heritage. It blends the beauty traditions of countries like Mexico, Brazil, Cuba, Colombia, and Argentina. Rooted in the vibrant and colorful Latin American culture, this makeup style draws inspiration from the region’s […]

North Korea Vows to Bolster Nuclear Force Amid US, South Korea, Japan Denuclearisation Pledge

SEOUL – North Korea’s Foreign Ministry announced on February 18 that it will continue to strengthen its nuclear force, denouncing a recent joint pledge by the United States, South Korea, and Japan for its denuclearisation, according to state media KCNA. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, and Japanese Foreign […]

Urgent Rally to Demand Justice for Religious Minorities in Bangladesh: Stand with Victims of Human Rights Violations

A crucial rally will take place tomorrow, December 27th, at 3:00 PM at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, to raise awareness about the ongoing atrocities and human rights violations in Bangladesh. The protest, organized by the Hindu Buddhist Unity Council and supported by several key organizations, will be held at 1100 South Ocean Blvd. and aims to bring […]

28 EU Ambassadors to Meet Dr. Mohammad Yunus on Monday

A total of 28 ambassadors from the European Union (EU) will meet with Dr. Mohammad Yunus, Chief Adviser of the interim government, on Monday, December 9.This will be the first time that ambassadors from 27 EU countries, along with the EU mission chief in Dhaka, will hold a joint meeting with the head of Bangladesh’s […]