WASHINGTON DC: US President Donald Trump has declared that Israel has agreed to key terms needed to finalize a 60-day ceasefire in Gaza.

Posting on Truth Social, Trump described the development as a potential turning point in efforts to end the ongoing war, although he did not disclose specific conditions.

Trump noted that Qatar and Egypt, both acting as mediators, would now present the finalized ceasefire proposal to Hamas. “I hope Hamas accepts the deal, because it won’t get any better — only worse,” he warned.

The war, which began after a Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 Israelis, has resulted in the deaths of over 56,000 people in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run health ministry. Hamas has not yet responded to the ceasefire terms.

The announcement comes ahead of President Trump’s upcoming meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Trump said he would take a “very firm” stance and expressed optimism about reaching a deal. “He wants to. I think we’ll have a deal next week,” Trump stated.

Meanwhile, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer was scheduled to meet with US officials in Washington on Tuesday. The talks included engagements with Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Vice President JD Vance.

Despite intensified mediation efforts, a senior Hamas official stated that negotiations with Israel remain stalled. Israel insists the war will not end until Hamas is dismantled, while Hamas continues to demand a permanent ceasefire and full Israeli withdrawal.

Around 50 Israeli hostages remain in Gaza, with at least 20 believed to be alive. Their fate remains central to the ongoing negotiations.