Trump: We're close to a Gaza Belt deal, it can be reached within the week.

Speaking to reporters at an airport, Trump expressed optimism about developing diplomatic efforts.

“I think we are close to an agreement on Gaza,” he said, underlining his determination to mediate a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, at the time Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is on his way to Washington.

The American president added that a possible hostage release agreement could also be reached within the following days.

There's a good chance we can reach agreement with Hamas for many of the hostages next week. We have freed most of them, but I believe the remaining ones will also be released. Hopefully this will be accomplished this week,” Trump said.

Meanwhile, Hamas has sent out a <x0-positive” response to the recent ceasefire proposal mediated by Qatar and Egypt.

Trump is expected to meet today at the White House at 6:00 local US hour with Prime Minister Netanyahu, during which the meeting will also be discussed on US pressure to stop fighting in Gaza. /Periscope/