Trump Confirms Iran’s Role in Israel-Hamas Hostage Deal Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump revealed on Monday that Iran is participating in ongoing negotiations involving the United States, Israel, and Hamas to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and facilitate a hostage-prisoner exchange.

“Gaza right now is in the midst of a massive negotiation between us and Hamas and Israel, and Iran actually is involved,” Trump said during a press event at the White House. “We want to get the hostages back.”

Trump did not provide further details regarding Iran’s role, and the White House has yet to release additional information. Iran’s mission to the United Nations also declined to comment.

The United States has put forward a proposal for a 60-day ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. While Israel has reportedly agreed to the terms, Hamas has not yet accepted the plan. The proposal includes the release of 28 Israeli hostages—both living and deceased—in exchange for 1,236 Palestinian prisoners and the remains of 180 Palestinians.

The involvement of Iran, a known backer of Hamas, signals a rare instance of indirect cooperation with the U.S. in Middle East diplomacy. The disclosure also comes amid separate talks between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear program, further complicating regional dynamics.

This potential ceasefire deal represents the most serious attempt yet to de-escalate the Israel-Gaza conflict and secure the release of hostages, a central concern for both Israeli and U.S. officials. The outcome remains uncertain as negotiations continue behind closed doors.

The Biden administration, facing international pressure to end the conflict, is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape involving longstanding adversaries, including Iran. The stakes are high, with humanitarian conditions in Gaza deteriorating and tensions escalating across the region.