'Long-sought peace in the Middle East': Trump says Gaza talks advancing rapidly

Donald Trump

Talks aimed at ending Israel’s nearly two-year war in Gaza and securing the release of hostages are advancing rapidly, US President Donald Trump said on Sunday, as delegations from Hamas and Israel headed to Egypt for another round of negotiations.

“There have been very positive discussions with Hamas, and Countries from all over the World (Arab, Muslim, and everyone else) this weekend, to release the Hostages, end the War in Gaza, but, more importantly, finally have long sought PEACE in the Middle East," Trump posted on his Truth Social platform.

“I am told that the first phase should be completed this week, and I am asking everyone to MOVE FAST," he added.

A Hamas delegation led by exiled Gaza chief Khalil Al-Hayya arrived in Egypt late Sunday to join representatives from the US and Qatar in the Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Israeli negotiators, led by Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer, are expected to join the discussions.

The talks are part of Trump’s 20-point peace plan aimed at halting the war, freeing hostages, and defining Gaza’s post-war governance. Hamas has accepted several elements of the plan, including the hostage release, but has avoided committing to disarmament, Reuters reported.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio told NBC News that negotiators would soon learn “whether Hamas is serious or not” based on how technical discussions progress. The first phase reportedly focuses on the release of 48 remaining hostages, including 20 believed to be alive, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Despite the diplomatic efforts, Israeli air and ground strikes continued on Sunday, killing at least 19 people, Gaza health authorities said. Still, optimism around a potential ceasefire has boosted Israeli markets, with the shekel hitting a three-year high and Tel Aviv stocks reaching record levels.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces mounting domestic pressure, from hostage families urging an end to the war and far-right coalition members warning they will withdraw support if military operations stop.