Trump: 'Good progress' made in talks with Israel to end Gaza war — NATO Summit
[The Hague, June 25, 2025] — President Donald Trump said that “significant progress” has been made in talks aimed at ending the war in Gaza. He made the remarks while speaking to reporters on the sidelines of the NATO summit.
Trump stated, “I think great progress is being made on Gaza, and I believe it’s because of the impact of our strike on Iran.”
He further suggested that the recent U.S. military actions targeting Iran were not just a message to Tehran, but could also have a positive diplomatic impact on resolving the Gaza crisis.
Trump’s assessment of the impact of strikes on Iran
President Trump was asked whether the U.S. attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities had increased the chances of securing the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza. In response, Trump said:
“I think it has helped a little bit.”
He added, “Even before this, we were very close to making a deal on Gaza.”
Background
In recent days, signs have emerged of a de-escalation in the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Meanwhile, although the U.S. strikes on Iran have sparked new tensions in the Middle East, the Trump administration appears to be using the situation as strategic leverage.
According to analysts, Washington’s current strategy involves simultaneously pushing for a ceasefire deal with Israel and maintaining military and diplomatic pressure on Iran — a dual approach that could help pave the way for a comprehensive solution to both crises.
President Trump’s remarks indicate that the U.S. is moving toward an effective agreement to end the Gaza war and facilitate a potential hostage exchange. Although no formal agreement has yet been reached, the administration’s active diplomacy and strategic pressure are shaping a new diplomatic reality in the Middle East.
