() A deal to end the war in Gaza and return Israeli hostages is “very close,” President Donald Trump told reporters Friday.
“It seems we have secured an agreement regarding Gaza,” he stated. “This agreement is expected to ensure the hostages are released. It aims to conclude the war and establish peace.”
Just moments before, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, speaking to a reduced number of delegates. He mentioned that Hamas has the power to stop the war “immediately” if it chooses to do so.
Global pressure to halt the conflict has intensified as an increasing number of countries advocate for the recognition of a Palestinian state, while Israel proceeds with its ground operations in Gaza City.
Trump on Thursday vowed to prevent Israel from annexing parts of the occupied West Bank.
Netanyahu is scheduled to visit the White House on Monday to meet with Trump, according to the Associated Press.
The details of the deal and with whom it was brokered have not been made clear.
