On July 4, Hamas signaled openness to a ceasefire—pending firm guarantees for a permanent end to the war—while Israeli forces escalated air and ground operations across Gaza, pushing the civilian death toll higher and expanding evacuation zones.
At a Glance
- Israeli forces killed at least 138 Palestinians in a single day as new “no‑go” zones were enforced in northern Gaza.
- Hamas is negotiating with Egyptian, Qatari, and U.S. mediators on a 60-day truce tied to permanent war-end assurances.
- A senior Israeli official says the agreement is “close,” with Hamas expected to respond imminently.
- More than 57,000 people have died in Gaza since October 7, 2023, and over 90% of civilians have been displaced.
- The proposed truce connects hostage returns, aid flows, and conflict resolution—but Israel demands Hamas disarm first.
Ceasefire Talks Edge Forward
Hamas is reviewing a U.S.-backed ceasefire framework that includes a 60-day halt in fighting and conditions for a permanent resolution. Mediators from Egypt and Qatar are actively pressuring all sides, but Hamas insists it will not accept any deal that lacks “ironclad guarantees” for an end to hostilities. Israeli officials claim the terms are near-final and that a response is expected within hours.
Watch a report: Hamas seeks ceasefire guarantees as Israel intensifies Gaza attacks
Gaza Life Under Siege
Inside Gaza, conditions continue to deteriorate. Al Jazeera reports at least 138 Palestinians were killed July 3 alone, many while seeking aid or shelter in now-restricted areas. Israel’s military has labeled much of northern Gaza a “no-go” zone, forcing civilians into congested southern districts. Health workers warn the mounting death toll and lack of access to food, medicine, and water could spiral into mass starvation.
What Comes Next
The next 48 hours are critical. If Hamas accepts the draft deal, the ceasefire could pause months of bloodshed and trigger a phased prisoner exchange and humanitarian relief effort. But unresolved demands—particularly Israel’s insistence on Hamas disarmament—may block final approval. With international pressure mounting and conditions worsening by the hour, the Gaza crisis remains perilously close to another tipping point.
