U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Friday about the possibility of a Gaza ceasefire agreement being finalized as early as next week, following encouraging remarks from Hamas in response to a U.S.-backed proposal.
Speaking to reporters while traveling aboard Air Force One, Trump welcomed Hamas’ statement that it had reacted to the ceasefire framework in “a positive spirit,” describing it as a step in the right direction after months of stalled negotiations and ongoing violence in the region.
“It’s a good sign that Hamas responded positively,” Trump said. “There could be a deal by next week — we’re hopeful.”
While he did not offer specific details about the current stage of talks or the latest proposals under discussion, Trump confirmed that he had not yet been fully briefed on the current state of the negotiations. However, he said he planned to discuss the issue further during his upcoming meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Monday.
Hope for a Breakthrough
The comments come amid renewed diplomatic momentum after a U.S.-brokered proposal for a 60-day ceasefire was presented to both Israel and Hamas earlier this week. The deal, aimed at halting the nearly 21-month-long war, includes provisions for the release of hostages, increased humanitarian aid, and the launch of talks to end the conflict permanently.
Hamas confirmed Friday that it had completed internal consultations and shared its response with Egyptian and Qatari mediators, signaling its readiness to engage in further negotiations based on the framework put forward by the United States.
Trump’s hopeful tone contrasts with recent weeks of high tension and slow progress, suggesting that behind-the-scenes diplomacy may finally be bearing fruit.
Ceasefire Talks at a Critical Moment
The Gaza conflict, which erupted in October 2023, has resulted in the deaths of over 57,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials, and has displaced much of the enclave’s population. On the Israeli side, the initial attack by Hamas claimed around 1,200 lives, and more than 250 people were taken hostage, some of whom are still believed to be alive.
While Netanyahu’s government has insisted that any deal must include Hamas’ disarmament, the militant group has so far refused to meet that demand. Nonetheless, U.S. officials have remained engaged in shuttle diplomacy to bridge the gap and secure at least a temporary truce.
Trump’s upcoming meeting with Netanyahu is expected to play a crucial role in determining how the ceasefire negotiations proceed in the coming days.
“We want to get the hostages back. That’s the priority,” Trump emphasized, reiterating his administration’s stance that humanitarian concerns must take center stage in the peace process.
Desert Feed will continue to provide real-time updates on the Gaza ceasefire talks, regional diplomacy, and humanitarian developments.+
