Hamas softens demands, raising hopes for Gaza ceasefire before January Egyptian sources say

There is growing optimism that a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas could be reached before US President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20, 2025.

According to Egyptian sources, Hamas has softened its demands, particularly regarding the terms for Israel's withdrawal from Gaza, recognizing the diminishing time window before Trump assumes power.

"Apparently, the Hamas leadership realizes that there is very little time left to reach an agreement with Israel before Trump enters the White House," Egyptian sources told Al Araby, per Caliber.Az.

Sources also indicate "cautious optimism" about the possibility of a deal between Israel and Hamas, though obstacles remain. Hamas and Fatah are reportedly close to a deal on jointly managing Gaza, a scenario likely to be unappealing to Israel.

In the meantime, Donald Trump has made his stance clear on the situation in Gaza, issuing a stern warning via Truth Social about the hostages held by Hamas. "Let this message serve as confirmation that if the hostages are not released by 20 January 2025, when I will proudly assume the office of President of the United States, all those who committed these atrocities against humanity in the Middle East will face severe retribution," Trump posted. He also added that those responsible would "suffer more than anyone" in the history of the United States.

In preparation for his presidency, Trump has appointed Lebanese-American businessman Massad Boulos as his senior Middle East adviser. Boulos has been instrumental in facilitating communications between Trump and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, helping to arrange their first conversation following Trump's November victory.

Meanwhile, Trump’s son-in-law, Jared Kushner, who has long been a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy, is expected to have an influential role in shaping US policy in the region. Although Kushner is unlikely to hold an official position in the new administration, his established relationships with Middle Eastern leaders and ongoing financial ventures in the region suggest his continued importance in future policy decisions.

By Tamilla Hasanova