Trump says Gaza deal near, hostages could soon be freed
Trump’s active diplomacy in the region has been praised by international observers as a proactive step toward conflict resolution.
U.S. President Donald Trump indicated Friday that a significant breakthrough in Gaza could be imminent, with the potential to end the nearly two-year-long conflict and secure the safe return of hostages. Speaking to reporters before leaving the White House to attend the Ryder Cup in New York, Trump said, “It’s looking like we have a deal on Gaza. I think it’s a deal that gets the hostages back, and it’s going to be a deal that ends the war”
Although he did not provide specific details or a timeline, Trump’s remarks signal that high-level negotiations are actively underway. A senior White House official confirmed that Trump is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday to discuss a framework aimed at a comprehensive peace agreement.
The U.S. recently circulated a detailed 21-point Middle East peace plan to regional leaders, including officials from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Indonesia, and Pakistan. The plan emphasizes the safe return of all hostages, cessation of attacks on Qatar, and renewed dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to foster long-term peaceful coexistence.
The initiative reflects strong international engagement, with Trump consulting representatives from several Middle Eastern nations alongside Netanyahu to advance the peace process. This effort comes amid the ongoing humanitarian challenges in Gaza, where the war has led to significant civilian casualties and widespread destruction.
Since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, following a Hamas incursion into Israel, the situation has remained tense, with hundreds of hostages taken and substantial loss of life on both sides. The U.S.-led peace efforts aim to halt further escalation, provide humanitarian relief, and create a platform for sustainable dialogue between Israel and the Palestinian territories.
Trump’s active diplomacy in the region has been praised by international observers as a proactive step toward conflict resolution. The White House plan seeks to balance security concerns with humanitarian priorities, offering a framework for de-escalation and reconciliation.
While challenges remain, the announcement of potential progress brings renewed optimism for families of hostages and communities affected by the war. Analysts note that successful implementation of the plan could mark a historic turning point for Middle East peace efforts, potentially ending one of the region’s most persistent conflicts.
The upcoming meeting with Netanyahu will be a critical step in finalizing the terms of the agreement and ensuring the plan’s success. With coordinated international support, the U.S. aims to facilitate the safe return of hostages and lay the groundwork for a lasting resolution in Gaza.
