Key Takeaways
- Negotiations for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage deal are reportedly making significant progress, with Israeli officials suggesting 80% to 90% of the agreement is settled, though the core issue of ending the war remains unresolved.
- Despite ongoing diplomatic efforts, the Israeli military has issued new evacuation orders for five neighborhoods in Deir al-Balah, central Gaza, signaling preparations for intensified operations in the area.
- Mediators acknowledge the slow pace of talks, with Qatar emphasizing that negotiations will "need time" despite optimistic statements from U.S. envoys.
Diplomatic Efforts Continue Amidst Slow Progress
Talks regarding a potential Gaza deal are reportedly progressing, albeit slowly, according to an Israeli official speaking to Channel 12. A senior Israeli official indicated on July 8, 2025, that approximately 80% to 90% of the deal with Hamas has already been settled during indirect negotiations in Doha. This sentiment was echoed on July 16, 2025, when another senior Israeli official stated that a hostage deal between Israel and Hamas is "more likely than not," citing Israel's agreement to significantly decrease its force presence in Gaza during a proposed 60-day truce.
Despite these optimistic assessments, the core issue of bringing the war to an end remains unresolved. Qatar's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Majed Al-Ansari, noted on July 9, 2025, that negotiations would "need time," reflecting the complex nature of the discussions. The ongoing talks have seen involvement from U.S. officials, with President Donald Trump and his Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, reportedly pushing for an agreement.
New Evacuation Orders Issued in Deir al-Balah
Concurrently with the diplomatic maneuvering, the Israeli army has issued new evacuation orders in Deir al-Balah in the Gaza Strip. On April 7, 2025, Israel ordered the evacuation of five neighborhoods in central Gaza's Deir al-Balah, including Al-Sahaba, Al-Samah, Al-Awda, Al-Zawaida, and Al-Salah. These directives were described by Israeli Army spokesperson Avichay Adraee as a "final warning" ahead of anticipated "intense attacks" in the area.
Residents have been urged to relocate to the Al-Mawasi area near Khan Yunis, a designated humanitarian zone. This move signals Israel's preparations for intensified military operations in Deir al-Balah, an area that had previously seen less intensive ground force activity compared to other parts of Gaza. The continued military actions underscore the fragile and complex nature of the situation, even as ceasefire talks are underway.
Ed Liston is a senior contributing editor at TheStockMarketWatch.com. An active market watcher and investor, Ed guides an independent team of experienced analysts and writes for multiple stock trader publications.