After two years of devastating conflict, a framework to end the war in Gaza has entered its final stage, with US officials expressing high confidence in its success. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Sunday that the agreement is “90 per cent done,” with Hamas having “basically” agreed to the core terms proposed by the United States.
The deal’s primary objective is the release of all Israeli hostages. In a crucial concession, Israel will pull its forces back to the “yellow line,” its position in mid-August, upon the hostages’ safe return. This exchange is viewed as the cornerstone of the entire peace initiative.
A significant breakthrough has also been achieved on the political front. According to Rubio, Hamas has agreed “in principle” to engage in talks about the post-war governance of Gaza. This preliminary agreement tackles the critical question of “what’s going to happen afterwards,” laying the groundwork for a more stable future.
The plan has the strong backing of President Donald Trump, who called it a “great deal for Israel.” He also issued a stern ultimatum, warning Hamas of “complete obliteration” if it fails to give up power. Trump added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is aligned with the US vision for ending the conflict.
The remaining hurdles are logistical, with negotiators currently “finalising the logistical piece.” Rubio stated that the sincerity of Hamas’s agreement will be tested “very quickly” in these final talks, which hold the promise of ending the long and arduous war.