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On Saturday, Jared Kushner, son-in-law to former President Donald Trump, along with senior envoy Steve Witkoff, embarked on a mission to Egypt aimed at finalizing arrangements for the release of hostages. Meanwhile, Trump issued a stern warning to Hamas, emphasizing that any postponement in executing the peace agreement with Israel would be unacceptable.
A White House representative confirmed to AFP that Kushner and Witkoff’s visit to the Middle East focuses on sealing the details surrounding the hostage exchange and advancing the peace initiative championed by Trump to resolve the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Later that day, Trump took to his Truth Social platform to announce that Israel had consented to an initial withdrawal boundary in Gaza, information that had been communicated to Hamas.
“Once Hamas confirms, the ceasefire will take effect immediately, the exchange of hostages and prisoners will commence, and we will set the stage for the subsequent phase of withdrawal,” he declared, sharing a map outlining the proposed demarcation.
On Friday, Hamas responded favorably to Trump’s peace proposal, expressing readiness to release all hostages and engage in detailed negotiations regarding the agreement, which aims to end two years of conflict.
In response, Trump urged Israel to “immediately” cease its airstrikes on the devastated Gaza Strip. However, Israel’s military forces reportedly continued operations in the area as of Saturday.
Tragically, Gaza’s civil defense reported that Israeli strikes since dawn had claimed at least 57 lives, including 40 casualties in Gaza City alone.
Trump reiterated his ultimatum on Truth Social: “Hamas must act swiftly, or all prospects will collapse. I will not accept any delays, which many anticipate, nor any scenario where Gaza remains a threat.”
He added, “Let’s finalize this quickly. Fair treatment will be ensured for all parties.”
The framework proposed by Trump includes an immediate cessation of hostilities, the release of hostages within 72 hours, a phased Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and the disarmament of Hamas.
In an interview with Axios on Saturday, Trump highlighted his diplomatic efforts behind the scenes, including discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, asserting that a peace deal in Gaza is “within reach” and that he intends to push for its conclusion in the near future.
“I told Bibi, ‘This is your moment for victory.’ He agreed,” Trump said. “He has no alternative. With me involved, acceptance is mandatory.”
Trump also credited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for playing a significant role in persuading Hamas to consent to the hostage release.
“Erdogan was instrumental. He’s a formidable leader but also a friend, and his support was invaluable,” Trump remarked.