Hamas Seeks 10-15 Year Ceasefire in Gaza in Letter to Trump Amid Ongoing Negotiations

Nearly three years after the October 7 massacre, a ceasefire agreement with Hamas in Gaza appears to be taking shape. On Thursday evening, it was revealed that Hamas sent a letter in English to then-US President Donald Trump requesting a "hudna" (ceasefire) lasting 10 to 15 years. In the letter, Hamas expressed willingness to abide by the agreement and disarm, but demanded a long-term ceasefire during which Israel would halt attacks, assassinations of senior figures, and begin a gradual withdrawal from Gaza.

Israeli officials reject this proposed deal, calling it a Hamas spin that does not align with the framework Trump signed last October. Israeli sources described the proposal as a desperate attempt by Hamas to buy time and avoid being labeled as violating the agreement, which would allow Israel to resume military operations. Details leaked earlier indicate Hamas would gradually hand over weapons over several years but would not surrender heavy arms or reveal tunnels. Arab states would pay millions in severance to Hamas officials replaced by a technocratic committee, while Israel would commit to a long-term ceasefire and stop targeted killings. The Israeli Defense Forces would not retreat from the "yellow line" but would gradually vacate some areas.

American, regional, and Palestinian sources called the deal largely fictional, doubting Hamas would fully disarm or trust a third party other than the Palestinian Authority. A senior Israeli official emphasized that Gaza was not discussed in Netanyahu's meeting with Trump, reiterating Israel's demand for full Hamas disarmament and demilitarization as a precondition for any process. Israel has submitted objections to envoy Tony Blair and refuses any withdrawal before Hamas is disarmed.

Advanced talks are reportedly underway in Cairo under Egyptian intelligence auspices, with Qatar and Turkey mediating. Hamas is expected to announce disarmament and transfer Gaza's administration to an international stabilization force soon. The signing ceremony could occur within days, pending resolution of issues like Israel's right to resume fighting and the stabilization force's authority.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir strongly condemned the emerging deal, stating Israel should only respond to Hamas with force, not negotiations. Israel Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman also opposed any agreement, calling for Hamas's destruction instead. On Sunday, Israel's cabinet unanimously approved the entry of the International Stabilization Force into Gaza, with Ben-Gvir dissenting. The force will operate beyond the "yellow line" under strict Israeli approval and only from friendly countries with peace agreements with Israel.