60-Day Ceasefire in Gaza, Hostage Release, and Israeli Troop Withdrawal Discussed in President Trump–Sheikh Mohammed al-Thani Dialogue

60-Day Ceasefire in Gaza, Hostage Release, and Israeli Troop Withdrawal Discussed in Trump–Sheikh Mohammed al-Thani Dialogue
Washington, July 16, 2025

U.S. President Donald Trump and Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani are scheduled to meet face-to-face today (Wednesday) in Doha to discuss the ongoing ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces. Axios journalist Barak Ravid first reported on the contents of the upcoming discussion.

U.S.-Backed Draft Proposal for 60-Day Ceasefire

President Trump’s involvement is seen as a diplomatic push amid the ongoing indirect negotiations between Israeli and Hamas representatives in Doha, which began on July 6. A U.S.-backed draft proposal being discussed includes the following points:

• A 60-day ceasefire,

• Gradual release of hostages,

• Withdrawal of Israeli troops from designated areas in Gaza,

• And eventually, a framework for a permanent end to the war.

Steve Witkoff: "The U.S. Is Hopeful"

U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs Steve Witkoff said on Sunday, “We are hopeful about the ceasefire. The negotiations are progressing, though reaching a final agreement will take time.”

However, major obstacles remain—particularly disagreements between Hamas and Israel regarding the complete withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and the future roadmap after a temporary ceasefire.

Humanitarian Catastrophe: The Toll in Numbers

The war began in October 2023 with a surprise attack by Hamas, in which Israel claims 1,200 people were killed and nearly 250 taken hostage. In response, Israel launched a massive military campaign that, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health, has killed more than 58,000 Palestinians.

Over 2 million people have been displaced, and severe shortages of food, medicine, and clean water have developed.

Israel is currently facing war crimes charges at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and genocide accusations at the International Court of Justice (ICJ)—allegations that Israel denies.

Earlier this year, President Trump sparked global controversy by suggesting that Gaza be placed “under U.S. control,” a proposal that drew strong condemnation from the United Nations, human rights groups, and Palestinians, who labeled it as “a blueprint for ethnic cleansing.”

Barak Ravid's report also noted that the U.S. and Qatar may explore the possibility of reopening nuclear deal negotiations with Iran during the meeting.