WASHINGTON, D.C. Oct 5, 2025 – U.S President Donald J. Trump issued an optimistic update on Sunday regarding ongoing negotiations to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas in Gaza, emphasizing the urgency of finalizing a deal to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.
In a post on Truth Social, Trump described “very positive discussions” over the weekend with Hamas representatives and officials from countries across the Arab, Muslim, and broader international community. The talks, he said, focused on releasing the remaining hostages, ending the war in Gaza, and achieving long-sought peace in the region. “These talks have been very successful, and proceeding rapidly,” Trump wrote, adding that technical teams are scheduled to reconvene on Monday in Egypt to iron out final details.
According to Trump, the first phase of the agreement could be completed as early as this week, provided all parties “MOVE FAST.” He warned that time is of the essence, stating, “TIME IS OF THE ESSENCE OR, MASSIVE BLOODSHED WILL FOLLOW – SOMETHING THAT NOBODY WANTS TO SEE!” This comes amid heightened tensions, with Trump previously threatening “complete obliteration” for Hamas if it refuses to cede power and release captives.
The announcement builds on a broader peace framework Trump outlined last month, which proposes a 72-hour window for Hamas to release the approximately 48 remaining hostages—around 20 of whom are believed to be alive—in exchange for a ceasefire and prisoner swaps. Mediators, including Egyptian and Qatari officials, have been instrumental in facilitating the indirect talks between Israel and Hamas.
Hamas issued a statement earlier this week indicating agreement to hand over all hostages under Trump’s plan, a development praised by the group as a step toward “ending the conflict.” This follows reports of “very good meetings” involving U.S., Israeli, and regional stakeholders, with Trump crediting international pressure and his administration’s direct involvement for the progress.
As Monday’s meeting approaches, all eyes are on Cairo, where negotiators will clarify sticking points like the scope of the ceasefire and post-release governance in Gaza. Failure to advance could reignite military operations, Trump cautioned, potentially leading to “centuries-old conflict” spiraling into broader regional war.