- US President Donald Trump says that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza is “close” and could be reached “within the next week”.
- Trump made the comments late on Friday, indicating he had spoken with individuals involved in the ongoing negotiations.
- The US administration has been working on a deal following Israel's strikes in April, which shattered a previous two-month truce.
- Hamas has expressed willingness to release remaining hostages under a deal to end the war, while Israel insists on Hamas being disarmed and dismantled.
- Israeli Minister for Strategic Affairs Ron Dermer is scheduled to visit Washington for talks with Trump administration officials regarding Gaza, Iran, and a potential visit by Benjamin Netanyahu.
