U.S. President Donald Trump stated that there is a “real chance” to reach a peace agreement in Gaza, as negotiators from Israel and Hamas — the Palestinian group designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and EU — held indirect talks on the second anniversary of the war.
“We are close to reaching a Middle East deal that will bring peace to the region,” Trump told reporters in the Oval Office during a meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney.
Trump confirmed that American negotiators are involved in the talks taking place in Egypt, with special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner playing roles in the negotiations.
“There is a real chance that we can do something,” Trump said.
“I believe there is a possibility for peace in the Middle East. This even goes beyond Gaza. We want the immediate release of hostages. Our teams are there, and almost every country in the world supports the plan.”
The U.S. President added that his administration would ensure that all parties respect the agreement if Hamas and Israel agree to a ceasefire to end the fighting.
Last week, Trump presented a 20-point plan, calling for a ceasefire, the release of all hostages, the disarmament of Hamas, and the gradual withdrawal of Israel from Gaza.
The conflict in Gaza began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked southern Israel, killing around 1,200 people and abducting 251 others. In response, Israel launched a retaliatory offensive, resulting in more than 67,000 Palestinian deaths, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.
