
Sat Jul 19 00:47:36 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewritten news article from the perspective of The Hindu:
**Summary:**
President Donald Trump announced on July 18, 2025, that another 10 hostages held in Gaza are expected to be released soon, crediting his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, for the progress. Negotiations for a ceasefire and hostage release deal, backed by the U.S., have been ongoing in Doha since July 6th. Hamas has expressed a preference for an interim truce, including the return of 10 living hostages and the remains of 18 others over a 60-day period, in exchange for the release of Palestinian detainees. However, they might revert to demanding a full package deal if an interim agreement is not reached. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties: over 58,600 Palestinians and almost 1,650 Israelis and foreign nationals have been killed.
**News Article:**
**Gaza Hostage Release Imminent, Trump Claims, as Ceasefire Talks Continue**
**WASHINGTON, July 19, 2025 (The Hindu) -** U.S. President Donald Trump asserted on Friday that another ten hostages held by Hamas in Gaza are expected to be released shortly, offering a glimmer of hope amidst the ongoing conflict. Speaking at a dinner for Republican senators, Trump lauded the efforts of his special envoy, Steve Witkoff, in facilitating the progress.
This announcement comes as Israeli and Hamas negotiators have been engaged in U.S.-backed ceasefire talks in Doha since July 6th. The current proposal under discussion aims for a 60-day truce that would see the release of ten living hostages and the remains of eighteen others. In return, Israel would release an unspecified number of Palestinian detainees.
While President Trump has repeatedly expressed optimism regarding a potential deal, a concrete agreement has remained elusive. A spokesperson for the armed wing of Hamas stated on Friday that the group favors an interim truce but may insist on a comprehensive package deal if negotiations falter.
The human cost of the conflict continues to mount. According to Gaza health authorities, the death toll among Palestinians has surpassed 58,600. Israeli tallies report almost 1,650 Israelis and foreign nationals killed, including the victims of the Hamas attack on southern Israel in October 2023.
The international community, including India, is closely watching these developments, deeply concerned about the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza and its regional implications. The success of these negotiations is crucial in de-escalating tensions and paving the way for a lasting peace.