US President Donald Trump has said that hostages held in Gaza will probably be released on Monday, following what he described as an agreement between Israel and Hamas marking the first phase of a ceasefire.
Speaking on Fox News’ Hannity program on Wednesday night, Trump noted that the agreement was part of a broader effort to end the two-year conflict that began with Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.
The US president did not provide further details about the terms of the deal or the number of hostages expected to be freed, though negotiators from both sides have been meeting in Egypt this week to finalise the initial phase of a ceasefire plan.
Trump’s remarks come amid cautious optimism among mediators, including Egypt and Qatar, who have been working to secure the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and increased humanitarian aid to Gaza.
The ongoing talks form part of a multi-stage proposal that aims to de-escalate hostilities, rebuild Gaza’s devastated infrastructure, and pave the way for long-term peace discussions.
Melissa Enoch
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