Israel National News reports: “US President Donald Trump on Monday expressed optimism that a deal to end the Gaza war and return the hostages could be achieved.

Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump denied a report in Axios this week which indicated that Trump had told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stop being ‘negative’ about a potential deal and ‘take the win’.

‘No, it’s not true. He’s been very positive on the deal. Everybody is. I think every nation is. We have just about every nation working on this deal and trying to get it done,’ replied Trump, who later added, ‘Israel’s been great.’

Asked whether he has any red lines on issues such as Hamas disarming, the President replied, ‘I have red lines. If certain things aren’t met, we’re not going to do it. But I think we’re doing very well. And I think Hamas has been agreeing to things that are very important.’

Trump stated he expects a deal soon, adding the agreement for a ‘lasting peace’ that goes beyond Gaza. ‘This is about peace in the Middle East,’ he said…”