Newsletter for Saturday, July 5, 2025
تاريخ النشر: 28th, July 2025 GMT
A news bulletin provided by Sawa News Agency for Saturday, July 5, 2025, covering the most prominent events in the Gaza Strip, Israel, and the West Bank.
"These Are Our Amendments" – Hamas: We Await Israel’s Approval of Our Response to the Proposal
A senior Hamas official stated on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that the movement is awaiting the Israeli government's approval of its response to the ceasefire proposal in Gaza.
In a statement to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, he said, “The movement has submitted amendments to the ceasefire proposal, which include guarantees to swiftly move toward negotiations to end the war.”
He added that “the amendments also include expanding the circle of guarantors, details related to the entry of aid, and others concerning withdrawal maps.”
Meanwhile, the Hebrew daily Haaretz reported that Israel is continuing to review Hamas’s response to the ceasefire and prisoner exchange proposal in the Gaza Strip, noting that the Security Cabinet is scheduled to meet on Saturday evening to discuss the proposal.
The newspaper quoted an unnamed Israeli source as saying, “Israel is still examining the remarks submitted by Hamas regarding the proposal,” without providing further details.
The source added, “The Security Cabinet is expected to convene at 22:00 (19:00 GMT) to discuss the proposal, the future of the fighting in Gaza, and possibly Hamas’s response.”
Haaretz: Israel Examining Hamas’s Response as Cabinet Meeting Expected Saturday Evening
The Hebrew daily Haaretz reported that Israel is continuing to review Hamas’s response to the ceasefire and prisoner exchange proposal in the Gaza Strip, noting that the Israeli Security Cabinet is scheduled to convene on Saturday evening to discuss the proposal.
The newspaper quoted an unnamed Israeli source as saying, “Israel is still studying the remarks submitted by Hamas regarding the proposal,” without providing further details.
The source added, “The Security Cabinet is set to meet at 22:00 (19:00 GMT) to discuss the proposal, the future of the fighting in Gaza, and possibly Hamas’s response.”
On Friday evening, Hamas announced that it had submitted its response to the mediators after completing internal consultations and discussions with Palestinian factions and political forces.
The movement described its response as “positive,” affirming its “serious readiness to immediately engage in a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing the proposal.”
Details of the New Ceasefire Proposal in Gaza
The Al-Quds Al-Arabi newspaper reported on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that "in a new development on the path toward de-escalation in the Gaza Strip, and after nearly 21 months of war in the Palestinian territory, a new U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal has been announced, raising hopes that the initiative could offer a way out of the prolonged conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives and displaced the majority of the population."
According to the newspaper, the proposal—announced by U.S. President Donald Trump and reportedly accepted by Israel—includes a 60-day truce, arrangements for the exchange of hostages and prisoners, gradual Israeli military withdrawals, and American guarantees to launch serious negotiations aimed at a permanent ceasefire.
Details of the Initiative:Hostage and Remains Release Timeline (according to a source familiar with the negotiations):
Day 1: Release of 8 Israeli hostages.
Day 7: Transfer of 5 bodies.
Day 30: Transfer of another 5 bodies.
Day 50: Release of 2 hostages.
Day 60: Transfer of 8 additional bodies.
The exchanges will take place without ceremonies or media coverage. On Day 10, Hamas will provide medical information and identification of surviving hostages, while Israel will provide details about Palestinian detainees held from Gaza since October 7, 2023.
Prisoner ExchangeHamas will release hostages in parallel with Israel releasing Palestinian prisoners. It is estimated that Hamas and its allies hold around 50 hostages, though only about 20 are believed to still be alive.
Humanitarian AidThe agreement guarantees the immediate and sufficient entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, with the participation of the United Nations and the International Committee of the Red Cross, based on previous understandings signed on January 19, 2025.
Gradual Israeli WithdrawalDay 1: Withdrawal from specific areas in northern Gaza, based on pre-agreed maps.
Day 7: Withdrawal from areas in the south.
A joint technical team will finalize the maps during the implementation-phase negotiations.
Negotiations for a Permanent CeasefireTo begin on Day 1 of the truce and cover the following issues:
The remaining prisoner exchanges.
Long-term security arrangements in Gaza.
A declaration of a permanent ceasefire.
If a final agreement is reached, all Palestinian prisoners held in Gaza since the start of the war will be released.
International GuaranteesU.S. President Donald Trump guarantees the United States' commitment to the proposal and its implementation. Mediators—Washington, Doha, and Cairo—are committed to securing serious negotiations during the truce, with the possibility of extending it if necessary to reach a permanent agreement.
This proposal comes in the wake of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Iran that ended a 12-day military confrontation and is seen as a U.S. attempt to revive the negotiation track in Gaza amid a dire humanitarian situation and increasing international pressure on both parties.
Haaretz: Israel Reviewing Hamas’s Response; Cabinet Meeting Expected Saturday Evening
The Hebrew daily Haaretz reported that Israel is continuing to examine Hamas’s response to the ceasefire and prisoner exchange proposal in the Gaza Strip, noting that the Israeli Security Cabinet is expected to convene on Saturday evening to discuss the proposal.
The newspaper quoted an unnamed Israeli source as saying, “Israel is still reviewing the comments submitted by Hamas regarding the proposal,” without providing further details.
The source added, “The Cabinet is scheduled to meet at 22:00 (19:00 GMT) to discuss the proposal, the future of the fighting in Gaza, and possibly Hamas’s response.”
On Friday evening, Hamas announced that it had submitted its response to the mediators after completing internal consultations and discussions with Palestinian factions and political forces.
The movement described its response as “positive” and affirmed its “serious readiness to immediately enter a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing the proposal.”
Yedioth Discusses Israel’s Response to Hamas’s Amendments to the New Ceasefire Proposal
The Hebrew newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth reported on Saturday, July 5, 2025, on Israel’s response to Hamas’s amendments to the new ceasefire proposal in Gaza.
The newspaper stated that although U.S. President Donald Trump remains optimistic, the negotiations will require a long time following Hamas’s amendments.
It added, “Although the text of the proposal does not mention the entry of aid through the American humanitarian organization Gaza Relief Foundation, Hamas requested in its amendments to end its operations and exclude it from aid delivery and distribution. The original text refers to international organizations and the Red Crescent.”
The newspaper confirmed that the U.S. and Israel will reject Hamas’s demand to shut down the Gaza Relief Foundation.
It also noted that “Israel is prepared to release 1,000 prisoners, including about 100 serving life sentences, but will reject any request from Hamas to release high-profile Palestinian prisoners affiliated with Hamas or other factions.”
According to the report, discussions will also take place regarding the points of Israeli withdrawal. Israel is expected to agree to withdraw to the Morag axis, while insisting on maintaining a buffer zone at least 1.2 kilometers deep inside the Gaza Strip.
U.S. President Trump described Hamas’s claim that it responded “positively” to the ceasefire proposal as “a good thing.”
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said a ceasefire agreement in Gaza could potentially be reached next week, although he acknowledged that he had not been briefed on the current status of the negotiations.
Trump added, “We have to do something about Gaza. We’re sending a lot of money and a lot of aid.”
Two American Aid Workers Injured in Attack on “Gaza Relief Foundation” Site
The Gaza Relief Foundation announced on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that two American aid workers were injured in a targeted attack on a food distribution site in Gaza.
In a statement, the foundation — which is supported by the United States and Israel — said it is believed that the attack was carried out by two assailants who threw hand grenades.
The statement added that the injured Americans are receiving medical treatment and are in stable condition, according to Reuters.
World Food Programme Warns of Famine Risk in Gaza
The World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that one in every three people in Gaza goes days without food, putting more individuals at risk of famine.
In a statement, the United Nations agency said that over 700,000 people have been displaced since March, while reports indicate that around 85 percent of the Gaza Strip is now an active combat zone.
The WFP stressed that it continues to deliver humanitarian aid inside Gaza despite the "deteriorating security situation, restricted access, and the growing number of people in urgent need of food assistance."
The agency added that it has 140,000 metric tons of food stockpiled in the region—enough to feed the entire population of Gaza—and aims to deliver 2,000 metric tons of food aid into the Strip daily, in coordination with Israel.
The WFP confirmed that Israel has provided written guarantees to allow more aid into Gaza and to increase the number of border crossings used. However, it noted that the actual quantity of food being distributed remains far below the needs of the population.
Gaza Health Ministry Announces Rise in Death Toll from Israeli Offensive
The Ministry of Health in the Gaza Strip announced on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that the death toll from the Israeli offensive has risen to 57,338 martyrs and 135,957 wounded since October 7, 2023.
In a statement, the ministry said: “Hospitals in Gaza received 70 martyrs and 332 wounded in the past 24 hours.”
It added that the total number of victims from the Israeli assault has now reached 57,338 martyrs and 135,957 wounded since October 7, 2023.
Since Israel resumed its war of extermination on March 18, 2025, the ministry reported 6,780 martyrs and 23,916 wounded.
The ministry also stated that “in the past 24 hours alone, 23 people waiting for aid were martyred and more than 54 others were injured.”
It further noted that this brings the total number of casualties among those seeking aid—referred to as “breadline martyrs”—who have arrived at hospitals since May 27, to 743 martyrs and 4,891 wounded.
Health Ministry: Fuel Crisis Severely Depleting the Collapsing Healthcare System
The Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed that the ongoing fuel shortage needed to operate hospital generators remains unresolved, reaching unprecedented levels.
In a press statement issued on Saturday, the ministry said the crisis is further intensifying the severe depletion of the already collapsing healthcare system and the few remaining operational hospitals.
It added that the growing number of critical injuries increases the urgent need to ensure the continuous operation of generators powering vital hospital departments.
The ministry stressed that the Israeli occupation is deliberately pursuing a “drip-feeding” policy in allowing limited fuel entry, which does not provide hospitals with sufficient operational time.
It warned that the continued reliance on temporary and emergency solutions means that life-saving departments are on the verge of shutting down.
The ministry also noted that hospital engineering teams are overwhelmed by the constant need to monitor generator performance and implement fuel-saving measures, which have become increasingly ineffective.
The Health Ministry renewed its urgent appeal to relevant parties to intervene and pressure the Israeli authorities to allow the entry of the necessary fuel supplies to keep hospital generators running.
Israel Threatens Gaza Residents if Ceasefire Agreement Fails
A meeting held between Israeli political and military officials on Thursday night and Friday morning discussed military plans in the event that no ceasefire agreement is reached, according to Channel 12 Israel.
The session follows the Israeli military's announcement that it is close to achieving the goals of "Operation Gideon's Chariots," after which "several options and plans will be presented to the political level to achieve the objectives of the war, including the recovery of hostages and the defeat of Hamas."
According to Channel 12, the session saw a heated exchange between Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, and ministers Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich.
Ben-Gvir and Smotrich accused the Chief of Staff of failing to implement the recommendations of the political level, while Zamir responded, saying, "There is no room for procrastination in Gaza... Be careful with your words. Soldiers are dying in battle."
During the session, Netanyahu raised his voice, demanding that a large-scale evacuation plan be prepared for Gaza residents, urging them to move to the southern part of the Strip. He stated, "I will not concede. Hamas will not remain under any circumstances in Gaza."
Zamir, on the other hand, opposed imposing Israeli control over Gaza's residents, warning of losing control. He said during the session, "Do you want a military rule? Who will govern two million people?" Netanyahu responded loudly, "The army and the State of Israel," adding, "I do not want military rule, but I am not prepared to keep Hamas in Gaza under any circumstances."
He continued, "The alternative to the evacuation plan for the southern part of the Strip is Israeli control over Gaza, which means the killing of the hostages. This is not what I want, and I am not ready for it."
Zamir responded to Netanyahu’s statement, saying, "We need to discuss this; we haven’t agreed on this. Controlling hungry and angry people could lead to losing control, which could result in an attack on the army." He also explained that this plan "would have huge impacts on the Israeli economy and society and would require significant resources in terms of deploying regular and reserve forces."
During the session, Netanyahu instructed Zamir to prepare an evacuation plan for Gaza by the time he returns from Washington, where he is scheduled to meet U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday for talks about Gaza and Iran. Netanyahu will remain in the U.S. until Thursday.
Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation "Kan 11" reported that during the session, ministers presented military proposals, with some questioning why the plan to deport 10,000 Palestinians weekly, as previously suggested by U.S. President Trump, had not yet been implemented.
Cairo Initiates Intensive Contacts to Reach Final Agreement on Gaza Ceasefire
Egyptian sources have announced that Cairo has begun intensive communications to reach a final formula for a ceasefire agreement in Gaza after receiving a response from Hamas, which opened the door for indirect negotiations lasting 60 days.
This was reported by Cairo News Channel citing those sources, though they were not named.
The sources further reported that "Hamas has submitted its response to the latest proposal presented by the mediators."
They confirmed that "Hamas's response included opening the door for indirect negotiations to achieve a ceasefire for sixty days once agreed upon."
The sources added that "Egypt is starting intensive contacts with various parties in the coming hours to reach a final formula that will be agreed upon by all parties."
They noted that "Egypt is intensifying its communications and efforts with all sides to resume indirect negotiations between the two parties."
Earlier on Friday, Hamas issued a statement confirming that it had delivered a "positive" response to the mediators regarding the latest ceasefire and prisoner exchange proposal.
Hamas added that it submitted its response to the mediators, describing it as "positive," without disclosing further details.
Hamas confirmed its "serious readiness to immediately enter a round of negotiations on the mechanism for implementing" the proposal.
While official sources have not commented on the details of the proposal, Hebrew and American media outlets have reported that its main provisions include the release of half of the Israeli prisoners held by Hamas (10 prisoners), along with the return of 18 Palestinian prisoners' bodies in 5 phases during the 60-day ceasefire period.
Trump: A Ceasefire Agreement on Gaza Could Be Reached in Days
U.S. President Donald Trump said on Saturday, July 5, 2025, that it is "a good thing" that Hamas has stated it responded "positively" to the ceasefire proposal in Gaza.
Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that a ceasefire agreement in Gaza could be reached as soon as next week, although he has not been briefed on the current status of the negotiations.
Trump said, "We have to do something about Gaza. We're sending a lot of money and a lot of aid."
Hamas announced on Friday evening that it had completed internal consultations and discussions with Palestinian factions regarding the mediators' latest proposal to end the aggression against the people of Gaza. Hamas confirmed that it had submitted a "positive" response to the mediators.
In a statement, which Sawa News Agency received a copy of, Hamas confirmed its "serious readiness to immediately enter negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework."
Israel confirmed it had received Hamas’s response through the mediators regarding the ceasefire draft proposal presented by Qatar, based on the plan by U.S. envoy Steve Vitkoff.
Israeli officials told Channel 12 that Israel had indeed received Hamas's response and is currently reviewing the details of this response. They also indicated that the Israeli negotiation delegation might depart for Doha to resume the negotiations.
Israel Decides to Send Negotiation Delegation to Qatar on Sunday
The Israeli Security Cabinet (kitchen cabinet) decided on Saturday evening, July 5, 2025, to send a negotiation delegation to the Qatari capital, Doha, on Sunday to begin talks regarding the ceasefire proposal for Gaza.
The Cabinet is scheduled to meet tonight to discuss Hamas’s response. Israeli sources say they are not rejecting Hamas's response outright, indicating that there are aspects they can work with.
Israeli Broadcasting Corporation Kan 11 quoted sources saying that estimates in Israel suggest that Hamas’s conditions will not be an obstacle to reaching a ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
The sources stated, “They are not rejecting Hamas’s response; they are discussing it, and they believe there are elements they can work with.” They added, “It’s not a 100% positive response, but in Israel, they want to move forward, seeing the response Hamas sent via Qatar as a basis for progress.”
Israeli sources indicated in the past few hours that one of the factors that allowed for progress in the deal is the intense pressure from both Qatar and the United States, particularly Qatar’s pressure on Hamas to accept the terms of the deal according to the plan presented by Steve Vitkoff.
This comes after Hamas announced in an official statement on Friday night to Saturday morning that it had submitted a "positive" response to the U.S. ceasefire proposal for Gaza and expressed its readiness to enter immediate negotiations regarding the mechanism for implementing this framework.
Hamas stated in its statement: "Hamas has completed its internal consultations and discussions with Palestinian factions and political forces regarding the mediators' latest proposal to end the aggression against our people in Gaza. The movement submitted its response to the mediators, which was positive, and the movement is fully ready to enter immediately into negotiations on the mechanism for implementing this framework."
Two Missiles Fired from Southern Gaza Intercepted
The Israeli military announced on Saturday evening, July 5, 2025, that it had intercepted two missiles fired from southern Gaza.
Sirens sounded in Kissufim in the Gaza Envelope area, and the Israeli military confirmed the interception of two projectiles fired from the southern part of the Strip.
According to Israeli Army Radio, 62 projectiles have been fired from Gaza since the resumption of the war on March 18, 2025, with the majority of them being intercepted.
78 Martyrs in Israeli Airstrikes on Gaza Since Early Saturday Morning
A Palestinian medical source announced on Saturday evening, July 5, 2025, that 78 Palestinians were martyred, and dozens more were injured in a series of Israeli airstrikes targeting various areas of the Gaza Strip since the early hours of the morning.
The source clarified that hospitals in Gaza received 78 martyrs and dozens of injuries as a result of Israeli aerial bombardments targeting different regions of the Strip.
The source also indicated that there are critically injured individuals who have arrived at the hospitals, and the medical teams are unable to treat them due to a lack of resources and medical supplies.
المصدر : وكالة سوا اشترك في القائمة البريدية ليصلك آخر الأخبار وكل ما هو جديد المزيد من Palestine Now - English Newsletter for Friday, July 4, 2025 Newsletter for Thursday, July 3, 2025 Newsletter for Wednesday, July 2, 2025 الأكثر قراءة اعتراض مسيرة "أطلقت من اليمن" بعد الهجوم على الحديدة ألمانيا: توزيع المساعدات في غزة لا يتوافق مع المبادئ الإنسانية صحة غزة تعلن أحدث إحصائية لعدد شهداء العدوان بالفيديو: 5 شهداء بينهم سيدة في قصف استهدف محطة تحلية المياه بحي الرمال بمدينة غزة عاجلجميع الحقوق محفوظة لوكالة سوا الإخبارية @ 2025
المصدر: وكالة سوا الإخبارية
كلمات دلالية: that the Israeli the negotiations Newsletter for The Ministry The ministry the ministry The Israeli A Ceasefire that Israel
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Newsletter for Wednesday, July 9, 2025
A news bulletin provided by Sawa News Agency for Wednesday, July 9, 2025, covering the most important events in the Gaza Strip, Israel, and the West Bank.
Hamas Reveals Details of Gaza Ceasefire Agreement
Hamas leader Taher al-Nounou revealed, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, the details of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza.
Al-Nounou said that the movement is showing a high level of flexibility in the ongoing negotiations in Doha and is cooperating with mediators. He added that Hamas has agreed to release 10 Israeli prisoners held in Gaza to ensure the flow of aid and halt the aggression.
In statements to Al Jazeera, al-Nounou pointed out that the current round of negotiations faces significant challenges, but the movement's position remains firm regarding the basic requirements for any agreement with the occupation, foremost of which is the full withdrawal from Gaza and a complete cessation of the aggression.
He stressed the importance of international guarantees, affirming that the United States holds the real leverage over Israel to end the war if there is political will.
Currently, indirect talks are ongoing in the Qatari capital, Doha, between a Hamas delegation and an Israeli delegation to discuss the details of an agreement that ensures a ceasefire in Gaza, which has been ongoing since October 7, 2023.
Current Negotiations
Regarding the new developments that led the movement to agree to the latest ceasefire proposal, al-Nounou confirmed that Hamas bases all its negotiations on the interests and supreme goals of the Palestinian people, and that this is the driving force behind all the details they are negotiating.
He added that based on these principles, Hamas agreed to the latest proposal, providing the necessary flexibility to protect their people, end the genocide, and allow the free and dignified flow of aid to their people until the war is fully ended.
Al-Nounou emphasized that their flexibility in dealing with the mediators' proposals was the key to reaching this round of negotiations. As part of this, Hamas agreed to release 10 Israeli prisoners from Gaza to ensure the flow of aid and halt the aggression against their people.
Regarding the current progress in the negotiations, al-Nounou explained that the movement is engaged in a difficult round of negotiations, focused on two key issues:
The entry of aid and its unrestricted and dignified flow without Israeli interference or the imposition of mechanisms that undermine Palestinian dignity and contribute to displacement and demographic redistribution.
The first phase of Israeli withdrawal lines in a way that does not affect the lives and future of citizens, paving the way for the second phase of negotiations, with the need for necessary guarantees to enter this phase.
Guarantees Issue
When discussing the necessary guarantees to ensure the success of these negotiations and the following stages, al-Nounou stated that Hamas appreciates the efforts of the mediators to bridge the gap and ensure an agreement that ends the war. However, he stressed that "the only party capable of imposing a ceasefire on the occupation is the United States."
On this specific point, al-Nounou confirmed that the U.S. provides Israel with the political and media cover and the necessary support to continue the war on Gaza. Nevertheless, he argued that if the U.S. had the political will, it would be sufficient to force Israel to adhere to any agreement reached.
He stressed that the U.S. "is the only party that can force Israel to stop this war and aggression, so if the political will and real guarantees from the U.S. are present, we are confident that we will reach the end of this war."
Two Key Conditions
When asked about the conditions Hamas demands to agree to any deal, al-Nounou clarified that a comprehensive ceasefire and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip are part of the requirements for any comprehensive agreement with the occupation.
He stated that Hamas has insisted on this demand from the beginning, and "we are talking about an agreement lasting 60 days, during which negotiations for a complete ceasefire and the full withdrawal from Gaza will take place."
Al-Nounou concluded his statements by saying that the first phase of the agreement includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces to their positions as of March 2, 2025, which will pave the way for continuing negotiations and starting the second, comprehensive phase.
Ministry of Finance: Awaiting Tax Revenues Transfer to Pay a Portion of Salaries
Majdi Hassan, Deputy Minister of Finance, stated that the ministry is awaiting the transfer of tax revenues from Israel for the months of May and June to pay employees' salaries at a rate of 70%, with a minimum of 3,500 shekels. However, the ministry has prepared alternative scenarios to pay a portion of the salary in case the clearance revenues are not transferred.
Hassan explained, in a press conference held in Al-Bireh on Wednesday, with the participation of General Accountant Muhammad Rabea and Director of the Government Contact Center Muhammad Abu Rab, "We are waiting for the clearance transfer, and if it occurs, we will pay 70% with a minimum of 3,500 shekels. We expect this within a week to 10 days. If it is not transferred, we have prepared several other scenarios to pay a percentage, which may be 35% or more or less, depending on the resources available to us."
Prime Minister Muhammad Mustafa stated in the weekly government meeting on Tuesday that the Israeli side had informed the Palestinian side that the total clearance revenues for May and June, after deductions, amount to 890 million shekels. He confirmed that none of the clearance funds for these two months had been transferred to the Palestinian treasury yet.
Hassan further mentioned in the press conference that Israel had started new deductions, in addition to the allowances for Gaza and the families of martyrs and prisoners, in an effort to absorb the improvement in Palestinian domestic revenues that had occurred since the beginning of this year, following a sharp decline in 2024.
Israeli Army Announces the Start of Encircling Beit Hanoun in Northern Gaza Strip
The Israeli army announced today, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, that it has begun encircling the town of Beit Hanoun in northern Gaza as part of its ongoing war on the Gaza Strip.
This comes after five Israeli soldiers were killed and 14 others injured in an ambush in Beit Hanoun, carried out by the Izz ad-Din al-Qassam Brigades, the military wing of Hamas, two days ago.
The army stated in a statement published on the X platform: "The Givati Brigade, led by the 162nd Division, joined the forces of the 99th Division and started operations to encircle Beit Hanoun."
It claimed that the brigade is working to "eliminate elements and undermine the military capabilities of Hamas in the area."
Netanyahu Reveals Details of Gaza Ceasefire Implementation and Aid Distribution
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu revealed some details for the first time today, Wednesday, July 9, 2025, regarding the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza and the distribution of aid during this period.
In an interview with "Fox News," Netanyahu said, "We are talking about a 60-day ceasefire during which half of the living hostages and half of the deceased hostages will be returned."
He added, "There is a good chance of reaching an agreement in Gaza."
Netanyahu indicated that "we will likely implement the aid distribution over the next sixty days through our own system and also through the United Nations."
He stated, "We do not want to give up on what we started, which is the direct distribution of aid to people without passing through Hamas."
Netanyahu confirmed that "the ceasefire agreement will bring us closer to the goal I set from the beginning, which is the retrieval of all hostages without capitulation or surrender."
Netanyahu Departs the White House – Behind the Scenes of Gaza Talks in Doha and Washington
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu concluded his second meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House within two days without any announcement of progress in the ceasefire talks or the release of hostages in Gaza, which were the main topics of the meeting.
It seemed that the possibility of such an announcement had increased after the meeting was added to Netanyahu’s schedule a few hours before, where Trump mentioned that they would discuss the Gaza issue. U.S. Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Wittekopf, expressed hope for an agreement to be reached this week.
However, while Netanyahu and Trump met for over an hour in the Oval Office with Vice President J.D. Vance, two sources familiar with the matter reported that Wittekopf decided to postpone his trip to Doha, where he was scheduled to join the ongoing convergence talks between Israel and Hamas.
The sources said Wittekopf was supposed to travel to Qatar on Tuesday, and that the new departure date has not been set yet. The U.S. envoy informed mediators that he still intends to travel to Doha to assist in completing the agreement, noting that his decision to delay the trip indicated that significant progress is needed.
Saudi news channel "Asharq" reported, citing unnamed "informed sources," that the fifth round of convergence talks in Qatar ended on Tuesday night with little progress. A Palestinian official told the news channel that the talks had reached a "dead end," accusing the Israeli negotiating team of "just listening rather than negotiating" and consulting "every issue" with Netanyahu and Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer, the chief Israeli negotiator accompanying the prime minister on his trip to Washington.
The Palestinian official claimed the Israeli team lacked the authority to make real decisions, "continuing Netanyahu’s delaying tactics to obstruct any possible agreement."
Shortly before Netanyahu’s meeting with Trump on Tuesday, a delegation of senior Qatari officials held a three-hour meeting with Wittekopf at the White House to discuss negotiations on the hostages, according to a source familiar with the matter.
After his meeting with Trump, Netanyahu stated that the discussions "focused on efforts to free our hostages."
In a video filmed at Blair House, he said: "We will not relent for a moment, and this is possible thanks to the military pressure exerted by our heroic soldiers," adding, "Unfortunately, these efforts come at a high price, which is the loss of our best sons."
Netanyahu confirmed that Israel is determined to achieve all its objectives in Gaza – "the release of all our hostages, dead or alive; dismantling Hamas's military and governance capabilities; and ensuring that Gaza will no longer pose a threat to Israel."
Netanyahu also discussed with Trump and Vance "the implications and possibilities" of the operation carried out by Israel and the United States against Iran.
He said: "Opportunities have opened up here to expand the circle of peace and expand the Abraham Accords. We are working on that with all our might."
According to four sources familiar with the negotiations, the United States is more optimistic than Egyptian and Qatari mediators about the chances of reaching an agreement on a ceasefire and the release of hostages in Gaza this week.
Wittekopf had earlier told reporters on Tuesday that he hoped to reach an agreement this week and that three of the four key sticking points had been resolved during the past three days of indirect talks in Doha.
A source familiar with the matter explained that the three issues Wittekopf referred to as resolved were Hamas's demand for guarantees from mediators that the ceasefire would remain in place even if discussions on the terms of a permanent ceasefire were not concluded by the end of the 60-day truce under discussion; Hamas's demand for aid to be delivered to Gaza through mechanisms supported by the United Nations; and the terms of the prisoner and hostage exchange.
The source added that while progress had been made on the first two issues, the negotiators in Doha had not yet discussed the identities of the Israelis and Palestinians to be released under the agreement, as Hamas insists on resolving the other issues first.
However, the number and identity of the individuals to be released is not considered as contentious as the other issues, according to the source, who speculated that this is why Wittekopf incorporated the prisoner and hostage exchange component into the agreement along with the issues already resolved.
Regarding the issue of aid, negotiators in Doha proposed initial support for terms in the agreement that prevent the "Gaza Humanitarian Foundation" from operating in areas from which the Israeli military has withdrawn, according to a source familiar with the negotiations.
The source added that the United Nations and international organizations not associated with Israel or Hamas would be solely responsible for distributing aid in areas where the Israeli military is no longer present.
The remaining obstacle is the partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza during the 60-day ceasefire period, according to an American official and a source familiar with the negotiations. Israel insists on staying in the Morag area in southern Gaza near where it plans to establish a "humanitarian city," where all Gaza residents will be gathered and prevented from leaving after being screened.
Israel Prepares for Mass Detention and Forced Displacement of Palestinians in Rafah
The Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor has warned of an Israeli plan to forcibly detain Gaza's residents in a closed detention camp being built on the ruins of Rafah, describing this plan as a dangerous escalation in the ongoing genocide against Palestinians.
The Monitor explained in a statement on Wednesday that the plan, revealed by Israeli Security Minister Israel Katz, involves transferring around 600,000 Palestinians to a so-called "humanitarian area" after subjecting them to intense security checks, imposing strict movement restrictions, and preventing them from leaving the area.
The statement emphasized that this step represents a deliberate attempt to empty Gaza of its original inhabitants and impose a new demographic reality by force, which constitutes a severe violation of international humanitarian law and falls under acts of forced displacement, persecution, and apartheid.
The Monitor also highlighted that the seriousness of the plan is amplified in light of Minister Katz’s statements in which he welcomed what he called the "voluntary migration" of Palestinians, reflecting the explicit adoption of an external displacement policy.
It further noted that gathering Gaza’s residents in the south does not serve any humanitarian purpose, but rather represents a transitional phase in a systematic plan to empty the region of its inhabitants, directly extending policies of uprooting and ethnic cleansing.
The Monitor also criticized the use of terms like "humanitarian area" or "humanitarian transit area" as intentional manipulation of concepts to justify coercive policies aimed at reshaping Gaza’s demographic reality.
It concluded by stressing that any departure from Gaza under current circumstances cannot be considered "voluntary," as the population has been stripped of any genuine ability to make free decisions about their fate.
Lapid Criticizes Netanyahu's Use of "Morag Axis" to Block Prisoner Exchange Agreement in Gaza
Israeli opposition leader Yair Lapid criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, for using the "Morag Axis" in southern Gaza as a reason to obstruct reaching a prisoner exchange agreement with Hamas and a ceasefire.
Israeli media, including the official broadcasting agency, reported that the only obstacle to a deal is Netanyahu's insistence on maintaining control over the "Morag Axis," which separates Rafah from Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip.
Lapid accused Netanyahu of "placing obstacles to reaching an agreement," adding, "Now suddenly, the Morag Axis has become the new cornerstone of our existence?" Lapid was referring to past claims made by Netanyahu, such as the assertion that the Philadelphi Corridor along the Egypt-Gaza border was the cornerstone of Israel’s presence.
Lapid continued, "We decided to have one axis between Rafah and Khan Yunis (the Morag Axis), and it was a practical decision at the moment, but is it reasonable that this will determine the fate of those buried underground?" referring to the Israeli prisoners held by Hamas in Gaza.
According to the Israeli Broadcasting Authority, Netanyahu revealed about three months ago that Israel had taken control of the Morag Axis, considering it to be the second Philadelphi Corridor and a strategically important line to cut Gaza into sections, increasing pressure on Hamas.
Netanyahu's insistence coincides with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz's announcement of Tel Aviv's plan to create what it calls a "humanitarian area" in Rafah, which had been emptied of Palestinians since March due to Israeli attacks and the destruction of buildings.
In the same month, Netanyahu ordered the creation of the "Morag Axis" following the collapse of a ceasefire agreement that began in January, after Israel reneged on the deal.
On Friday evening, Hamas announced that it had submitted its response to the ceasefire proposal to mediators after completing internal consultations and discussions with Palestinian factions. Hamas described its response as "positive" and expressed "serious readiness to immediately enter negotiations regarding the implementation mechanism" of the proposal, while Netanyahu continues to delay and persist in the destruction of Gaza.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel, with U.S. support, has been committing what is described as a genocide in Gaza, involving killing, starving, destroying, and forcibly displacing Palestinians, disregarding international calls and orders from the International Court of Justice to halt these actions.
This war has resulted in over 194,000 Palestinians killed or injured, most of them women and children, over 11,000 missing, hundreds of thousands displaced, and widespread famine claiming many lives, including dozens of children.
Albanese Criticizes 3 European Countries for Providing Safe Airspace to Netanyahu
Francesca Albanese, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on human rights in the occupied Palestinian territories, has demanded explanations from three European countries for allowing Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, a person wanted by the International Criminal Court (ICC) for war crimes, to use their airspace during his travel.
Albanese’s remarks came in response to France, Greece, and Italy—countries that are signatories of the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the ICC—allowing Netanyahu a safe air corridor while he was en route to the United States for a meeting with President Donald Trump.
Netanyahu has been in Washington since Sunday and is expected to remain there until Thursday. This marks his third visit to the U.S. in the past six months.
Albanese posted on the social media platform X on Wednesday: "The governments of Italy, France, and Greece should explain why they provided airspace and a safe corridor for Benjamin Netanyahu, who is wanted by the ICC and should be arrested (under the Rome Statute obligations)."
She stressed that citizens of the three European countries "deserve to know that any political action that violates the international legal system weakens us all and exposes us to danger."
An arrest warrant was issued against Netanyahu on November 21, 2024, by the ICC for committing war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.
In the same month, the European Union stated that it supports the ICC and that all EU member states are obligated to enforce arrest warrants against Netanyahu.
The ICC arrest warrant against Netanyahu is a significant test of the international community's commitment to justice. Under Article 89 of the Rome Statute, countries that are parties to the treaty are obliged to cooperate with the ICC in executing arrest warrants.
In April 2025, Netanyahu was forced to take a long route from Budapest, Hungary, to Washington to avoid a forced landing that could result in his arrest under the international arrest warrant, according to Israeli media.
However, there was no mention in Israeli media of any similar precautions Netanyahu took during his current trip to the U.S.
The United States is not a member of the ICC, which issued the arrest warrant for Netanyahu. However, Netanyahu was concerned about traveling through the airspace of ICC member countries, fearing a forced landing that might lead to his arrest.
Since October 7, 2023, Israel, with U.S. support, has been committing genocide in Gaza, including killing, starvation, destruction, and displacement, ignoring international calls and orders from the International Court of Justice to stop.
This war has resulted in over 194,000 Palestinians killed or injured, mostly women and children, more than 10,000 missing, hundreds of thousands displaced, and famine that has claimed many lives, including dozens of children.
OCHA: Humanitarian Situation in Gaza Catastrophic and Rapidly Deteriorating
The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has warned of the accelerating deterioration of the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip, pointing out that reports from the field indicate that tents, schools, homes, and medical facilities are being bombed, resulting in dozens of casualties daily.
In its latest update, OCHA stated that hospitals are reducing their supplies, ambulance services are disrupted, and water networks are on the brink of collapse.
The office also highlighted the critical fuel crisis, with what little fuel remains being used to power essential operations, but running out quickly. OCHA warned that there is almost no additional fuel stock available.
It warned of a likely sharp increase in deaths soon unless Israeli authorities allow the entry of new fuel, which has not been allowed for several months.
Furthermore, OCHA pointed out that Israeli authorities issued a new displacement order late Tuesday, affecting parts of Khan Younis, particularly those living in tents, further complicating the already dire humanitarian conditions in the region.
The UN office also noted that even smaller areas, where people are forced to gather, now reduced to about 15% of the territory and continually shrinking, have become "fragmented" and remain unsafe.
Gaza Health Ministry Announces Latest Casualty and Injury Statistics from Israeli Aggression
The Ministry of Health in Gaza, on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, announced the latest statistics on the number of martyrs and injuries resulting from the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza.
The ministry's daily report confirmed that the death toll has risen to 57,680 martyrs and 137,409 injuries since October 7, 2023. It reported that 105 martyrs and 530 injuries had arrived at Gaza's hospitals over the past 24 hours.
The report also revealed that since March 18, 2025, the number of martyrs had reached 7,118, and the number of injuries stood at 25,368.
Additionally, the ministry reported that 7 martyrs and over 57 injuries had arrived at hospitals in the past 24 hours from those killed while waiting for aid, bringing the total number of martyrs from "food aid" to 773 and the total number of injuries to 5,101.
Protests Outside the White House Rejecting Netanyahu's Visit and Calling for His Arrest
Hundreds of activists staged protests outside the White House over two consecutive days, coinciding with meetings between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The protests were held in opposition to Netanyahu’s visit to Washington.
The demonstrators carried signs reading "Arrest Netanyahu" and condemned the war crimes committed by Israeli forces in Gaza. Protesters chanted slogans demanding accountability for Netanyahu over the deaths of thousands of Palestinian civilians, emphasizing that his visit to Washington was a provocation to millions of people who stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people.
The protesters stressed that international justice should not overlook the crimes committed by the Israeli military under Netanyahu's far-right government, and they called for an end to the unconditional U.S. support for Israel.
Israel Shows Flexibility on Withdrawal from Morag Axis
Israeli public broadcaster "Kan 11," citing informed sources, reported on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, that Israel has shown "significant flexibility" in recent hours, including regarding its stance on the Morag axis in southern Gaza.
The sources stated that despite some progress in the negotiations, there are still "difficulties," especially regarding Israel's insistence on maintaining its military presence in the Rafah area and its demand to retain control of it as part of a potential ceasefire.
The discussions are expected to continue into next week, with mediators—led by Qatar and the United States—working to propose "creative" solutions to address the complexities related to Israel's position on withdrawing its forces.
In parallel to the ongoing negotiations in Doha, Israeli Minister of Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer is holding direct talks with U.S. Presidential Envoy Steve Vitkoff and senior Qatari officials. Vitkoff and Dermer also held a joint meeting with a Qatari delegation at the White House on Tuesday, which was focused on discussing Israel's withdrawal from Gaza, according to Channel 12 Israel on Wednesday.
The sources indicated that both the U.S. and Qatar made it clear during the meeting that the maps Israel had proposed for withdrawal were "unacceptable," with Hamas insisting on Israel withdrawing to the positions it held during the last ceasefire.
Vitkoff reportedly said during the meeting that "Every Israeli withdrawal map proposed so far resembles Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich's plans, which include Israeli occupation in large parts of Gaza, a stance that is unacceptable to President Trump."
The channel further reported that the Qataris had informed Israel that Hamas had started preparing on the ground for the release of Israeli hostages and was only waiting for the final gap in the agreement to be bridged.
Notably, there has been marked progress in the talks, with Israel agreeing to broader withdrawal lines than initially discussed, following a tense meeting between Dermer and Qatari representatives who had warned of a collapse in negotiations.
Dermer acknowledged in this meeting that Netanyahu faced political constraints, but Israel later presented a new proposal for the withdrawal.
المصدر : وكالة سوا اشترك في القائمة البريدية ليصلك آخر الأخبار وكل ما هو جديد المزيد من Palestine Now - English Newsletter for Thursday, July 10, 2025 Newsletter for Tuesday, July 8, 2025 Newsletter for Monday, July 7, 2025 الأكثر قراءة اعتراض مسيرة "أطلقت من اليمن" بعد الهجوم على الحديدة منظمة التعاون الإسلامي تعقد اجتماعًا طارئًا لمناقشة العدوان الإسرائيلي تفاصيل الاتصال الهاتفي بين الرئيس عباس وبابا الفاتيكان الجيش الإسرائيلي يبدأ عملية برية بدير البلح وسط غزة عاجلجميع الحقوق محفوظة لوكالة سوا الإخبارية @ 2025
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