Trump Says Hostage Deal Near as Talks Advance
US President Donald Trump said Thursday that negotiations for the release of hostages in Gaza are making progress, with his administration in direct contact with both Israel and Hamas. Trump told reporters, “We’re getting close to getting them back,” adding, “We’re dealing with Israel, we’re dealing with Hamas, and it’s a nasty group.”
President Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, reportedly echoed that message to hostage families, saying, “A real serious deal is on the table and it’s a matter of a few days,” according to reports by Israeli media. Talks have been ongoing between Israel, Egypt, and the US, focusing on reconciling Egypt’s ceasefire proposal with one offered by the US.
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Israel’s Kan radio reported Friday that Israel and Egypt had exchanged draft documents for a potential agreement. The Egyptian plan includes releasing eight hostages and the bodies of eight others in exchange for a truce of 40 to 70 days and the release of a large number of Palestinian prisoners. The US proposal, advanced by Witkoff last month, includes a two-month ceasefire in exchange for the release of five hostages.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met Thursday with Israeli negotiators and security officials for a situation assessment. His office said he also spoke with the families of hostages Elkana Bohbot and Rom Braslavski, updating them on efforts to secure the captives’ release. Netanyahu’s office stated that he “reiterates his commitment to achieving all the goals of the war.”
About 24 hostages are believed to still be alive in Gaza along with the bodies of 35 others.
