Israeli media sources have reported that U.S. President Donald Trump has urged Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza, stating that the war has "exhausted its objectives." This request came during a phone conversation on Monday, where Trump emphasized the need for a resolution beyond proposals made by his envoy, Steve Wietkoff.

Trump indicated that concluding the war in Gaza could facilitate negotiations with both Iran and Saudi Arabia.

In parallel developments, Netanyahu convened a meeting with key security officials, including the Minister of Defense, the Minister of Strategic Affairs, and the Chief of Staff, to discuss ongoing hostage negotiations.

Netanyahu described significant progress in discussions pertaining to a potential exchange of hostages held in Gaza.

In a recorded video statement released by his office, Netanyahu stated, "It is too early to raise hopes, but we are working diligently during these hours towards a swap deal.

We are working at all times to advance the deal, and I hope we can make progress."

Israeli sources further conveyed that there is a possibility, ongoing communications, and developments regarding the negotiations.

Gideon Sa'ar, Israel's Foreign Minister, mentioned in a press conference that there has been some recent progress, though he refrained from elaborating on the specifics due to the complexities surrounding the situation.

He expressed a commitment to reach an agreement that includes a ceasefire and the return of all captives, both deceased and alive.

The Israeli public families of the captives have criticized Netanyahu following his recent statements.

In a public statement, they argued, "There is no need for new inventions; a comprehensive agreement can be signed by Netanyahu tomorrow if he wishes.

We are tired of media maneuvers and false displays, and we look forward to hearing good news.

We hope Netanyahu shows the necessary courage to choose the only path capable of achieving victory."

The families asserted that the overwhelming majority of the Israeli public supports an agreement that facilitates the return of the captives, regardless of the costs involved in ending the war.

They demanded the return of all captives from Gaza without discrimination or classification.

In early March, the first phase of a ceasefire agreement and prisoner exchange between Hamas and Israel concluded, which began on January 19, 2025, under Egyptian, Qatari, and U.S. mediation.

While Hamas adhered to the terms of the first phase, Netanyahu has reportedly avoided initiating the second phase, responding to pressures from extremist elements within his ruling coalition.

Israel estimates that there are 56 Israeli captives in Gaza, of which 20 are alive.

Hamas has repeatedly expressed its readiness to release the Israeli prisoners "in one batch" in exchange for an end to what it refers to as an act of genocide and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, as well as the release of Palestinian prisoners.

However, Netanyahu has introduced new conditions, including the disarmament of Palestinian factions, while currently insisting on the reoccupation of Gaza.

Since October 7, 2023, Israel, with U.S. support, has been conducting military actions in Gaza, leading to significant human casualties, with over 181,000 Palestinians reported dead or wounded, including many women and children.

Additionally, more than 11,000 individuals are reported missing, alongside hundreds of thousands displaced.