Trump Says He “May Go” to Middle East Amid Israel-Hamas Peace Talks

Potential Visit to Egypt and Gaza
President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he “may go” to the Middle East this weekend as peace talks between Israel and Hamas continue in Egypt. Speaking at the White House, the president told reporters he would “probably be leaving Sunday, maybe Saturday,” if negotiations progress as expected.

Trump confirmed he is considering stops in both Egypt and Gaza. “I may go there sometime toward the end of the week,” he said. “Negotiations are going along very well. We’re dealing with Hamas and many of the countries.”

His special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, and his son-in-law Jared Kushner are already in the Egyptian resort city of Sharm el-Sheikh, where indirect talks are being facilitated by Egypt and Qatar.

Focus on the 20-Point Peace Plan
The current negotiations center on Trump’s 20-point peace proposal, which he unveiled alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House last month. The plan’s first phase calls for Hamas to release all remaining hostages—living and deceased—within 72 hours.

Hamas has reportedly agreed to parts of the U.S.-led proposal. Tuesday marked two years since Hamas’ 2023 attack on Israel, which killed roughly 1,200 people and led to the abduction of 251 civilians.

Trip Timing Amid Shutdown
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Trump will visit Walter Reed Medical Center on Friday for his annual checkup and to meet with U.S. troops. Afterward, he is considering departing for the Middle East “shortly thereafter.”

If confirmed, the president’s trip would take place during an ongoing federal government shutdown—an unusual backdrop for a major foreign policy mission. Trump has urged negotiators to “move fast,” signaling optimism that a long-awaited peace deal may soon be within reach.