WASHINGTON, D.C., October 8, 2025 – U.S. President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that negotiations for a ceasefire in Gaza are “very close” to a breakthrough, revealing he received a note from Secretary of State Marco Rubio during a White House event indicating rapid progress in the talks.
Speaking to reporters, Trump described the developments as a major step toward ending the two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas. “I was just given a note by the Secretary of State saying that we’re very close to a deal in the Middle East,” he said, adding that officials “need me pretty quickly” and he may depart for the region as soon as Saturday or Sunday.
The announcement comes as indirect talks between Israeli and Hamas representatives entered their third day in Egypt, with U.S., Qatari, and Turkish mediators playing key roles. Under the U.S.-proposed plan’s first phase, both sides have reportedly signed off on initial terms, including an immediate ceasefire and the release of all 48 Israeli hostages still held in Gaza—20 of whom are believed to be alive.
Trump expressed optimism on his Truth Social platform, posting that the agreement marks a “historic” moment after days of intense diplomacy. The deal aims to halt ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza and pave the way for broader peace efforts in the region.
White House officials have not confirmed the exact location of Trump’s potential trip but indicated Egypt as a likely destination to seal the agreement. The breakthrough follows renewed U.S. pressure on both parties amid international calls to end the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.