President Donald Trump said Sunday there’s a “good chance” a hostage deal with Hamas could be reached within the week. The remarks came ahead of his Monday meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington.
Netanyahu confirmed that 20 hostages are believed alive, while 30 more are presumed dead. He emphasized Israel’s commitment to bringing them all home and confirmed indirect talks were underway in Doha, Qatar. Yet, early reports suggest the Israeli team lacks full negotiating authority.
A senior Hamas officer admitted in messages to the BBC that the group has lost control of 80% of Gaza and that its leadership and command structure have “completely collapsed.” He called the situation “total chaos,” with no functioning security, salaries, or communication.
A proposed ceasefire deal includes a 60-day pause, release of 28 hostages (10 living, 18 dead), Israeli withdrawal to a buffer zone, and aid distribution by UN and the Palestinian Red Crescent. Trump is expected to personally announce and guarantee the ceasefire.
Still, Hamas demands a full end to the war—something the current proposal only promises to negotiate during the truce.
