Trump says he may visit Middle East — including Gaza — this weekend

U.S. President Donald Trump said he may visit the Middle East later this week and did not rule out a stop in the Gaza Strip.

“Maybe I’ll do it. We haven’t made a final decision yet,” Trump told reporters at the White House on October 8, adding that he was “most likely going to Egypt, where everyone is right now.”

Asked whether the release of hostages by Hamas was a prerequisite for the trip, Trump said it was not: “I think I may go before it happens — or shortly after. The sides are very close to a deal,” he noted.

Earlier, Trump said he could travel to the region on October 11 or 12, adding that “talks are going well” and that there was a “very high chance” of reaching a peace agreement in the Middle East.