Trump to Visit the Middle East 0 59

U.S. President Donald Trump may travel to the Middle East as early as this weekend, as negotiators are "very close" to finalizing a ceasefire deal in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages. This was reported by the Financial Times (FT).

"I might go there later in the week, maybe on Sunday," the American leader said.

As the publication notes, senior negotiators from the U.S., Qatar, and Turkey joined talks in Egypt on Wednesday regarding the cessation of the war in the Gaza Strip, as mediators intensified pressure on Israel and the radical Palestinian movement Hamas to resolve disagreements over the implementation of Trump's plan.

Despite both Israel and Hamas stating that they generally support Trump's 20-point plan, there are disagreements between the warring parties. According to a diplomat familiar with the negotiations, these include Hamas's concerns regarding the demand for its disarmament, the timeline for Israel's gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and the role of international stabilization forces that are to be deployed in the enclave.

The source also added that Arab states are concerned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made amendments to certain parts of Trump's plan, including information about the timelines and locations for the redeployment of Israeli troops.