Israeli forces advance ahead of Trump-Netanyahu Gaza war talks

Reuters:

CAIRO/JERUSALEM, Sept 29 – Israeli tanks thrust closer to the heart of Gaza City on Monday, pressing a ground offensive hours before talks between Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump, who has hinted at a diplomatic breakthrough in a bid to end the war.

After nearly two years of failed diplomatic efforts, Washington presented a 21-point plan to Arab and Muslim states last week that calls for a permanent ceasefire and the release of remaining hostages.

Trump, who said last week that he believed a deal to end the fighting was close, promised “SOMETHING SPECIAL” on the eve of his meeting with Netanyahu.

“We have a real chance for GREATNESS IN THE MIDDLE EAST,” he wrote on social media. “ALL ARE ON BOARD FOR SOMETHING SPECIAL, FIRST TIME EVER. WE WILL GET IT DONE!!!”

Still, there are signs of scepticism from Israel.