Trump Expresses Confidence in Gaza Agreement Ahead of Netanyahu Meeting, Families Urge Continued Pressure
Washington D.C. – As Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arrived at the White House on Monday, Donald Trump expressed optimism regarding potential progress in ceasefire negotiations for the Gaza Strip. Trump indicated a breakthrough may be near, referencing a 21-point plan he presented to Arab and Muslim leaders during last week’s UN General Assembly.
Meanwhile,families of hostages held in Gaza have appealed to Trump to maintain a firm stance in his efforts to end the conflict. In a letter published Monday on their X account, the Family Forum, a leading organization representing the hostages’ relatives, urged the President to “stay firm in the face of any attempt to sabotage the agreement you have proposed.” They emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “The issues are too large and our families have waited for too long for interference to derail these advances.”
The forum highlighted Trump’s words of support, quoting him as saying, “You, and you alone, have the strength to carry out this agreement to the end, and we are so grateful to have you on our side.”
The families’ plea comes amid accusations that Prime Minister Netanyahu has previously “sabotaged” several ceasefire proposals since the start of the conflict between Israel and Hamas almost two years ago. They are seeking Trump’s intervention to pressure Netanyahu,arguing that his stated goals of ending the war and securing the release of all hostages are at odds with israel’s current military actions.
Of the 47 hostages captured on October 7th, the Israeli army has declared 25 deceased. The families’ letter underscores the desperate hope for a resolution and the critical need for continued diplomatic efforts.