Less than a week after Israel welcomed home the last 20 living hostages, the ceasefire that enabled their release is already fraying. President Trump tapped Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff—businessmen, not diplomats—to broker the deal, salvaged after an Israeli strike in Qatar forced a Netanyahu apology. The pair met Hamas in Egypt after Trump authorized contact, securing terms letting Hamas remain in Gaza while Israel frees nearly 2,000 Palestinians. They describe ruin in Gaza, deny genocide, and face conflict-of-interest questions. With aid deliveries disputed and remains sought, unresolved issues loom as negotiators return to hold the truce together.

Prepared by Rachel Morgan and reviewed by editorial team.