In a stunning diplomatic breakthrough, US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel has agreed to a complete ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Gaza militants. The announcement came during an impromptu press conference at the White House, where Trump revealed he had just concluded a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
White House Breakthrough After Intense Diplomatic Efforts
The President confirmed that Israel would "fully cease" all military operations in Gaza, marking a significant de-escalation after days of intense cross-border fighting. According to Trump, the agreement came after substantial behind-the-scenes negotiations involving multiple international parties.
"This is a major step toward peace in the region," Trump told reporters, appearing visibly pleased with the diplomatic achievement. "We've been working on this around the clock, and I'm proud to announce that both sides have agreed to stand down."
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
While specific terms of the ceasefire remain undisclosed, sources indicate the agreement includes:
- Immediate cessation of all cross-border rocket attacks
- Halting of Israeli airstrikes in Gaza territory
- Humanitarian corridor provisions for aid delivery
- Commitment to further peace talks in coming weeks
The development comes after escalating violence that saw hundreds of rockets fired from Gaza into Israeli territory, met with extensive Israeli airstrikes that resulted in significant casualties on both sides.
International Reaction and Next Steps
World leaders have been quick to welcome the announcement, with many praising the US administration's diplomatic intervention. The United Nations has offered to facilitate monitoring of the ceasefire agreement, while European leaders have expressed relief at the potential for de-escalation.
Middle East analysts suggest this could represent a significant foreign policy victory for the Trump administration, which has faced criticism over its Middle East peace plan. However, many caution that previous ceasefires in the region have proven fragile, and long-term peace will require more comprehensive negotiations.
The White House has indicated that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be travelling to the region in coming days to help solidify the agreement and begin discussions about longer-term solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
