What's happened
Steve Witkoff, the US Middle East envoy, reports progress on a plan with Israel to end the Gaza conflict, including disarming Hamas and releasing hostages. The plan remains uncertain amid ongoing negotiations and humanitarian crises in Gaza, with recent deadlock and international pressure mounting.
What's behind the headline?
The claims of a near-end to the Gaza war by US envoy Witkoff suggest a shift towards a comprehensive resolution, but several factors complicate this outlook. The assertion that Hamas is prepared to disarm contradicts their repeated stance against relinquishing weapons unless a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established. The reported plan to end the war involves disarming Hamas, releasing all hostages, and demilitarizing Gaza—demands that Israel and its allies are unlikely to accept without significant concessions. The recent deadlock in ceasefire negotiations, coupled with worsening humanitarian conditions, indicates that a swift resolution remains unlikely. The international community's endorsement of a two-state solution and calls for Hamas to hand over arms highlight the broader geopolitical stakes. The US's focus on ending the conflict aligns with domestic political pressures, but the complexity of Palestinian-Israeli relations and Hamas's resistance suggest that the plan's success will depend on substantial diplomatic breakthroughs and concessions from all sides.
What the papers say
The New Arab reports Witkoff's assertion of working on a plan with Israel to end the war, emphasizing the potential disarmament of Hamas and release of hostages. The article notes that negotiations have faltered and that Hamas remains committed to armed resistance unless a fully sovereign Palestinian state is established. The Japan Times highlights President Trump's call for Hamas to surrender and release hostages, framing it as a key to ending Gaza's humanitarian crisis. The NY Post also quotes Trump on the urgency of hostage release as part of the resolution process. These sources collectively reveal a focus on hostage negotiations and disarmament as central to ending the conflict, with US political figures emphasizing the need for Hamas to surrender as a precondition for peace. The coverage underscores the political pressure on Israel and the US to find a diplomatic solution amid worsening humanitarian conditions, but also reflects differing perspectives on the feasibility of Hamas disarming and the broader peace process.
How we got here
Tensions escalated after Hamas took Israeli hostages and Israel responded with a blockade and military operations. Negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage releases have repeatedly faltered, amid worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, where starvation and lack of aid have caused numerous deaths. The US has increased diplomatic efforts, with Witkoff visiting Israel and meeting Prime Minister Netanyahu, amid international calls for a two-state solution and Hamas disarmament.
Go deeper
Common question
-
Why Are The Latest Superhero Movies Breaking Box Office Records in 2025?
Superhero films continue to dominate theaters in 2025, with Marvel's 'The Fantastic Four: First Steps' and DC's rebooted 'Superman' making huge waves. But what's driving their success? Are superhero movies still popular, or is this a rare comeback? Here’s everything you need to know about the latest box office hits and what they mean for fans of Marvel and DC.
-
Is the Gaza Conflict Nearing Resolution? What You Need to Know
The situation in Gaza remains tense, with recent reports suggesting progress toward ending the conflict. However, many questions still linger about the likelihood of peace, the role of international diplomacy, and the humanitarian crisis unfolding in the region. Below, we explore the latest developments and answer key questions about whether this long-standing conflict might finally be coming to an end.
-
Are Superhero Movies Still Dominating Box Office in 2025?
Superhero films continue to be a major force in cinemas this year, with new releases making significant impacts worldwide. But are they still the box office kings, or is audience interest waning? In this page, we explore the latest trends in superhero movies, comparing recent hits to previous years, and look at what the future might hold for this popular genre.
-
What is the US Middle East envoy's plan for Gaza?
The US Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has reported progress on a plan to end the Gaza conflict. This plan involves disarming Hamas and releasing hostages, but negotiations remain uncertain amid ongoing humanitarian crises and international pressure. Many are wondering what steps are being taken and what the future holds for Gaza. Below, we explore key questions about the US's role and the prospects for peace in the region.
-
What’s Next for Superhero Films in 2025?
Superhero movies continue to dominate the box office in 2025, with fresh takes, new stars, and evolving themes shaping the genre. Fans and newcomers alike are asking: How are these films changing? What new stories are being told? And what does the future hold for superhero franchises? Below, we explore the latest trends and insights into superhero cinema this year.
-
What Are the Latest Updates on the Gaza Conflict?
The Gaza conflict remains a major international concern, with ongoing negotiations, humanitarian crises, and diplomatic efforts shaping the current situation. People are asking about recent developments, international involvement, and what the future might hold. Below, you'll find answers to the most common questions about the latest in Gaza, helping you stay informed on this complex and evolving issue.
More on these topics
-
Steven Charles Witkoff is an American real estate investor and landlord based in New York City, and founder of the Witkoff Group.
-
Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
-
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
-
Hamas is a Palestinian Sunni-Islamic fundamentalist militant organization. It has a social service wing, Dawah, and a military wing, the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades.