Military Operations, Ceasefire Efforts, and Uncertain Prospects

Israeli troops were shown operating in the Gaza Strip in a photo released by the Israel Defense Forces. Operations in Rafah's Shabura and Tel al-Sultan neighborhoods involved dismantling "terrorist infrastructure" and uncovering a cache of military equipment. Along the Morag Corridor, troops located weapons, destroyed Hamas infrastructure, and killed several militants.

Multiple media reports indicate that US President Donald Trump has increased efforts to pressure the Israeli government and Hamas to negotiate a ceasefire and secure a hostage agreement. A Chinese expert expressed skepticism about the deal's feasibility, citing the US's perceived bias towards Israel.

Trump posted on Truth Social that Israel had agreed to the necessary conditions for a 60-day ceasefire, during which efforts would be made to end the war. He also mentioned the involvement of Qatar and Egypt in delivering the final proposal and urged Hamas to accept the deal. This new proposal follows a recent ceasefire brokered by Qatar between Iran and Israel.

The new proposal attempts to address Hamas's concerns with the earlier proposal. During the ceasefire, Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. However, it remains uncertain whether both sides have reached an agreement, as Israel previously insisted on the complete destruction of Hamas, while Hamas demanded Israel's withdrawal.

In November 2023, an initial four-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas occurred. This truce collapsed a week later after the exchange of hostages and prisoners. Further talks to extend the ceasefire failed.

Trump is scheduled to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. An Israeli military official stated that while Israel's war goals have not been fully achieved, Hamas's forces have diminished. Domestic and international pressure has increased to end the war in Gaza.

Israel's war in Gaza has resulted in a significant number of casualties and injuries. Sun Degang noted that the US's ability to influence its allies and groups like Hamas remains to be seen. He added that the US may resort to harsh measures against Hamas, which could lead to spillover effects.