On Saturday, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced that “most of the hostages who were in Gaza have been recovered,” as negotiations over a prisoner exchange deal and ceasefire between Hamas and Israel remain in a state of anticipation.

 Trump praised U.S. Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff for “doing a great job regarding Gaza.”

 In a separate context, Trump reiterated his claims about Iran, stating that “U.S. strikes during the recent Israeli war on Iran destroyed its nuclear capability.” He added that “the potential for Tehran to possess nuclear weapons has been completely eliminated.”

 Meanwhile, U.S. Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs Adam Boehler said on Friday that “a deal in Gaza is closer than ever,” according to Politico, while noting that “Hamas is extremely stubborn and still holding strong.”

 Previously, U.S. and Israeli media reported that mediators had submitted an updated proposal to both Israel and Hamas concerning a possible prisoner exchange and ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Qatari–American talks have also been held to support the negotiation process.