First Phase of Gaza Ceasefire Plan to be Completed within Next Week : Trump

US President Donald Trump said yesterday (5 October) that talks with Hamas to end Israel's war in Gaza and release hostages held by the Palestinian militant group are advancing rapidly.

"These talks have been very successful, and proceeding rapidly. The technical teams will again meet Monday, in Egypt, to work through and clarify the final details. I am told that the first phase should be completed this week, and I am asking everyone to MOVE FAST," Trump said in a social media post.

Israel and Hamas prepared for indirect negotiations in Egypt today, as hopes for a possible ceasefire in Gaza began to build after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said a hostage release could be announced this week.

Trump has welcomed the group's statement accepting some elements of the US peace plan. Israel has said it supports the new US effort. Under the plan, Hamas would release the remaining 48 hostages — about 20 believed to be alive — within three days. It would give up power and disarm.

Today's discussions will focus on the proposed exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, Egypt's foreign ministry said. US envoy Steve Witkoff is joining the talks, according to an Egyptian official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to brief reporters.