U.S. President Donald Trump will meet with Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani on Wednesday to discuss negotiations for a potential Gaza ceasefire. The talks follow ongoing discussions in Doha between Israeli and Hamas representatives, who have been reviewing a U.S.-backed proposal since July 6. The proposed deal includes a 60-day truce, a phased release of hostages, and partial Israeli troop withdrawals from Gaza.
Mediators from the U.S., Qatar, and Egypt have been working to bridge gaps between the two sides, but major disagreements persist, particularly over the extent of Israel’s eventual withdrawal from the Palestinian enclave. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, expressed optimism about the negotiations, highlighting Qatar’s key role as a mediator. However, reaching a lasting agreement remains uncertain.
The conflict, which escalated in October 2023 after Hamas’ attack on Israel, has resulted in significant casualties. Israel reports 1,200 deaths and 250 hostages taken, while Gaza’s health ministry states over 58,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s military response. The war has also triggered a severe humanitarian crisis, mass displacement, and accusations of genocide and war crimes against Israel, which it denies.
In addition to ceasefire talks, Trump and Sheikh Mohammed are expected to discuss efforts to revive U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations. A source familiar with the matter confirmed that both leaders will explore diplomatic pathways for a new nuclear agreement. The meeting comes amid heightened tensions in the region, with previous ceasefire attempts collapsing and controversial proposals, such as Trump’s idea of a U.S. takeover of Gaza, drawing international criticism.