Intro

Mediators for Hamas and Israel are set to meet in Egypt on Monday for indirect talks, after Hamas agreed to a US peace plan.

It’s a stunning diplomatic breakthrough for Donald Trump, whose plan proposes an immediate end to fighting and the release within 72 hours of 20 living Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Today we discuss with the BBC’s State Department correspondent, Tom Bateman, how President Trump reached such a significant breakthrough with Israel and Hamas, and whether his approach to deal making could actually pay off. Producers: Cat Farnsworth and Aron Keller Mix: Travis Evans Senior news editor: China Collins

Image: Gaza City on Sunday 5th October, 2025. Mahmoud Issa/Reuters