White House says Israel, Hamas ‘very close’ to framework deal on Gaza war

Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas are “very close” to reaching agreement on a framework deal to end the war in Gaza and pave the way for lasting peace in the Middle East, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday.

Speaking on Fox News’ Fox & Friends, Leavitt said President Donald Trump would present a 21-point peace plan to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House later in the day. She added that Trump would also hold talks with Qatari leaders, who have served as key intermediaries with Hamas.

“To reach a reasonable deal for both sides, both sides have to give up a little bit and might leave the table a little bit unhappy — but that is ultimately how we are going to end this conflict,” she said.

According to Israeli and Western media reports, the proposed plan calls for Hamas to release all 48 remaining captives in Gaza — around 20 of whom are believed to be alive — within two days. In return, Hamas fighters would reportedly be permitted to leave Gaza or offered amnesty if they renounce resistance.

Read more: Trump hints at new Gaza peace plan, claims all Muslim countries onboard

The plan also envisions significant humanitarian aid flowing into the famine-stricken enclave, the release of some Palestinian prisoners from Israeli military jails, and a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces.

Hamas, however, said in a statement on Sunday that it had received no new proposal from mediators Egypt and Qatar, both of whom are understood to have been briefed on Trump’s plan.