Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, who is visiting Washington, DC is expected to face pressure to reach a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement in the Gaza Strip, Anadolu Agency reports, citing Israeli media.

The Times of Israel cited sources as saying that the remaining sticking points in achieving a ceasefire include Hamas’ demand for a permanent end to Israel’s offensive in Gaza, as opposed to Israel’s efforts to secure a temporary ceasefire that leaves open the option for it to resume fighting. 

Israel’s Haaretz newspaper, citing senior White House officials, reports that senior officials from US President Donald Trump’s team will pressure Dermer to reach an agreement on “ending the attacks on Gaza and returning the remaining prisoners.” 

It was also reported that US officials would tell Dermer that Israel’s insistence on “eliminating Hamas” would be left for the future. The Yedioth Ahronoth daily also reported that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s recent statement that the rescue of Israeli hostages in Gaza had become a primary focus, rather than repeating his goal of “eliminating Hamas” suggested a shift in his priorities.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)