Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed hope on Saturday that all hostages held in Gaza would be released within days as Israel and Hamas prepare for indirect talks in Cairo. Netanyahu sent a delegation to Egypt to finalize technical details, but emphasized Israeli forces would maintain control over key Gaza areas and Hamas must disarm through diplomacy or force. The talks follow Hamas accepting parts of a U.S.-backed proposal for a phased ceasefire and prisoner exchange.
President Donald Trump urged Hamas to act quickly before the Oct. 7 anniversary, stating all agreements could collapse without swift action. Trump dispatched senior advisers to Cairo on Saturday as mediators work to finalize hostage releases and establish a framework to end the conflict. Under the plan, Hamas would release 48 remaining hostages within three days, relinquish power, and begin disarmament, while Israel would halt operations and withdraw from much of Gaza.
Hamas accepted the truce principle but said disarmament requires further internal discussions. Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv calling for peace as hostage families said resolution has never been closer. Gaza residents expressed skepticism about implementation while seeking practical relief from the war that has killed more than 67,000 people, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.
President Donald Trump urged Hamas to act quickly before the Oct. 7 anniversary, stating all agreements could collapse without swift action. Trump dispatched senior advisers to Cairo on Saturday as mediators work to finalize hostage releases and establish a framework to end the conflict. Under the plan, Hamas would release 48 remaining hostages within three days, relinquish power, and begin disarmament, while Israel would halt operations and withdraw from much of Gaza.
Hamas accepted the truce principle but said disarmament requires further internal discussions. Thousands gathered in Tel Aviv calling for peace as hostage families said resolution has never been closer. Gaza residents expressed skepticism about implementation while seeking practical relief from the war that has killed more than 67,000 people, according to Gaza's Health Ministry.
