Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has altered his approach to ceasefire negotiations with Hamas, now insisting on a comprehensive deal to end the war entirely, influenced by US President Donald Trump’s hardline stance, despite Hamas accepting a temporary ceasefire proposal. This shift has created confusion and raised concerns among mediators and hostage families.
Who: The key players include Netanyahu, Hamas leadership, US President Donald Trump, mediators from Qatar and Egypt, Israeli officials, and the families of hostages held in Gaza. Netanyahu’s far-right coalition partners, such as Itamar Ben Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich, also play a role by opposing any ceasefire.
What: Netanyahu has transitioned from supporting partial, phased ceasefire agreements to demanding a full resolution that secures the release of all hostages and ends the war on Israel’s terms, which include disarming Hamas and maintaining Israeli security control over Gaza. Simultaneously, he is accelerating plans for a massive military assault on Gaza City, pursuing a dual strategy of negotiation and warfare.
When: The strategy change occurred in recent weeks, with the article published on August 25, 2025, referencing events from the past week, including Trump’s comments and Netanyahu’s instructions to his team. The ceasefire proposal was accepted by Hamas nearly a week prior, but Israel has yet to respond.
Where: The events are centered in Israel and the Gaza Strip, with significant influence from Washington D.C., where Trump’s administration is providing explicit support. Negotiations involve mediators in Cairo and Doha, and the potential military action targets Gaza City.
Why: Netanyahu’s shift is primarily driven by Trump’s renewed support for destroying Hamas, as Trump has publicly endorsed Israel’s military actions and expressed skepticism about Hamas’s willingness to deal. Domestic pressures from far-right coalition partners, who threaten to collapse the government if a ceasefire is agreed, also contribute to this hardline approach.
How: Netanyahu is employing a mixed messaging tactic: he has instructed negotiators to engage in talks for a comprehensive deal but has not responded to the mediators’ proposal accepted by Hamas. At the same time, he is advancing military preparations, believing that increased pressure will force Hamas to concede to Israel’s conditions.
Impact: This approach has bewildered international mediators, angered hostage families who accuse Netanyahu of sacrificing their loved ones, and potentially escalated the conflict. It strains diplomatic efforts and could lead to further violence and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with protests planned by families and increased anti-government demonstrations in Israel.
What’s next: The situation remains volatile, with ongoing negotiations possible but a military assault on Gaza City imminent. The US, under Trump’s direction, may continue to support Israel’s stance, while hostage families and protesters aim to maintain pressure on the government. The outcome depends on whether Hamas bends to Israel’s demands or if the conflict intensifies.
Source: https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/25/middleeast/israel-netanyahu-ceasefire-trump-latam-intl