US President Donald Trump is pushing for a ceasefire deal to end the 20-month-long conflict in Gaza. In a social media post, he urged, "MAKE THE DEAL IN GAZA. GET THE HOSTAGES BACK!!!" He also confirmed that Israel's Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is expected to visit Washington, D.C., soon, which could signal progress toward a new agreement.

Trump also weighed in on Netanyahu's ongoing corruption trial, calling it a "POLITICAL WITCH HUNT" that he believes is hindering the ceasefire negotiations. He publicly called for the trial to be "CANCELLED, IMMEDIATELY," an unusual intervention from a foreign leader.

The Israeli military has ordered a massive evacuation in northern Gaza, instructing Palestinians in several neighborhoods and a refugee camp to move south. This mass movement is part of a military offensive aimed at giving forces more freedom to operate against militants.

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, with attacks by Hamas that resulted in 1,200 deaths and around 250 hostages taken. After 20 months, about 50 hostages remain captive, raising pressure on the Israeli government.

A key point of contention in talks is Hamas's demand for a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops and an end to the war in exchange for releasing all hostages. Israel has rejected this, offering to end the war only if Hamas disarms and its leaders go into exile.

The conflict has resulted in a humanitarian disaster, with over 56,000 people killed and most of Gaza's population displaced. The war continues to have a devastating impact on the region and its people.

Source: https://www.arabnews.com/node/2606239/middle-east