Desk Report:
US President Donald Trump said a possible deal to end the Gaza war and secure the release of hostages is nearing completion. However, he did not reveal any detailed plans.
Speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday (September 26), Trump said, “I think there is going to be a deal on Gaza and we are very close. It will be a deal that will return the hostages and end the war.”
Trump’s comments came at a time when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in his speech to the UN General Assembly, declared that they will not stop until they finish destroying Hamas.
CNN reported that Trump and top US officials proposed a 21-point peace plan on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. Citing sources, it was reported that the plan includes the release of all hostages and a permanent ceasefire. It also includes a framework for a Hamas-free regime in Gaza and a gradual withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip.
Arab leaders who met with Trump on Tuesday reportedly backed the plan in large part. But they also proposed some amendments and new conditions, two regional diplomats said.
Trump has previously expressed hope that he was close to a solution to the Gaza war, although that effort later collapsed. He has nevertheless made it clear that he wants to see a quick end to the conflict.
Trump will meet with Netanyahu at the White House on Monday (September 29).
