Hamas asks President Trump: Give us a 60-day ceasefire and we will give you half the hostages

In a significant development amid stalled negotiations in the Israel-Hamas war, Fox News chief foreign correspondent Trey Yingst reported that Hamas has drafted a personal letter to President Donald Trump. The letter requests Trump's personal guarantee for a 60-day pause in fighting, in exchange for the immediate release of half the hostages held in Gaza since the October 7, 2023, attacks.

Yingst, who has been embedded in the region and closely following the hostage crisis, shared the exclusive details during a segment on Fox & Friends. "Hamas has drafted a personal letter to President Trump," Yingst stated, explaining that the proposal aims to secure a temporary halt to hostilities to facilitate the partial hostage release. The report did not specify the exact number of hostages involved, but estimates suggest around 50 individuals remain in captivity, based on ongoing family communications and intelligence updates.

This move by Hamas follows a series of proposals and counteroffers exchanged between the parties. Earlier this month, independent outlet Drop Site News obtained a 100-word ceasefire "proposal" that Trump reportedly sent to Hamas, which a senior Hamas official described as appearing "written by the Israelis." That document, criticized for its brevity and perceived bias, did not lead to an agreement.

Israeli media outlets, including Channel 13, have reported on alleged Israeli offers in response to similar demands. These include the release of 10 live hostages and half of the deceased ones in a single day, coupled with a 60-day ceasefire and the immediate resumption of humanitarian aid. However, Israel has reportedly refused to withdraw from key areas like the Philadelphi and Netzarim Corridors, while expressing willingness to discuss a permanent end to the war during the truce period. Hamas, in turn, has sought assurances from Trump, including his personal declaration of the ceasefire and guarantees against renewed Israeli operations post-release.

The White House has not publicly commented on the letter, but Trump has previously taken a hardline stance on the issue. In February, he warned Hamas that failure to release hostages by a specified deadline could lead to escalated actions, stating, "Let all hell break out" if terms were violated. This latest proposal underscores the role of U.S. mediation in the conflict, with Trump positioning himself as a key guarantor in potential deals.

Families of the hostages continue to advocate for their loved ones' return, with Yingst noting ongoing conversations with relatives who have endured nearly 700 days of uncertainty. As negotiations evolve, the international community watches closely for any breakthroughs.