Washington, D.C. | July 1, 2025 : Ceasefire talks between Israel and the United States have officially begun in Washington, as the conflict in Gaza continues with deadly force. While diplomats sat down to discuss peace, Israeli airstrikes and tank attacks intensified in northern and southern Gaza, leaving dozens dead and thousands displaced.

According to Palestinian health officials, one of the deadliest strikes occurred at a beachside café in Gaza City, where 60 people, including children, women, and a journalist were killed. Medical workers have reported that over 220 journalists have died since the war began in October 2023.

Despite the violence, high-level Israeli officials arrived in Washington, hoping to secure terms for a new ceasefire agreement. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet U.S. President Donald Trump next Monday to push the discussions forward. It will be their third meeting this year.

President Trump has expressed hope for a breakthrough, even floating the idea of a “freedom zone” in Gaza that could include relocating civilians to neighboring countries like Jordan or Egypt. He recently said he believes a ceasefire and hostage exchange could happen “within a week,” but also acknowledged that many challenges remain.

Israel’s top concern is the return of its hostages and the complete dismantling of Hamas. Officials have made it clear that any agreement must include security guarantees for Israel, not just a temporary pause in fighting. In past talks, Israel rejected proposals that didn’t meet these core demands.

On the Palestinian side, Hamas is said to be open to releasing some hostages as part of a phased truce. Earlier this year, a 42-day ceasefire brokered by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar led to the release of several hostages and the flow of aid into Gaza. However, follow-up negotiations failed due to disagreements on the next phase.

The current talks are taking place under intense pressure. The latest airstrikes by Israel have led to more evacuations across Gaza. Thousands of civilians are now seeking shelter, with limited access to food, clean water, and medical care. Humanitarian agencies warn that the situation is worsening by the hour.

Meanwhile, international leaders are urging both sides to act. The United Nations Security Council recently passed a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire and the safe release of all hostages. Aid organizations like Amnesty International and Médecins Sans Frontières have demanded that the resolution be enforced and that civilian lives be protected.

With the Israeli delegation now in Washington and President Trump eager to broker a deal, the world is watching closely. Can diplomacy bring peace after nearly two years of war? Will hostages be freed and aid allowed in before more lives are lost?

The coming days may hold the answers, whether hopeful or tragic.