Rubio: Closest Progress on Hamas Hostage Release Expected Soon

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed cautious optimism about the potential release of all Israeli hostages held by Hamas, describing it as the closest the parties have come to such an agreement. He detailed a two-phase plan under President Trump's framework: first, the release of hostages and Israel's withdrawal to the "yellow line," followed by the establishment of an international governance structure in Gaza led by Palestinian technocrats. While Hamas has partially accepted the plan, including the hostage release and prisoner exchanges, several aspects like disarmament and governance require further negotiation. Rubio emphasized the urgency of swift progress, noting logistical challenges such as safe access for the Red Cross amid ongoing conflict. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is preparing for the initial phase of the plan, but Israeli airstrikes continue in Gaza, complicating the situation. Despite the difficulties, Rubio highlighted that this development marks significant progress toward a long-term resolution to the conflict.