OREANDA-NEWS  US President Donald Trump may travel to the Middle East as early as this weekend, as negotiators are "very close" to finalizing a deal on a cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and the release of hostages. This is reported by the Financial Times (FT).

"Perhaps I will go there towards the end of the week, maybe on Sunday," the American leader said.

Senior negotiators from the United States, Qatar and Turkey joined talks in Egypt on ending the war in the Gaza Strip on Wednesday, as mediators increased pressure on Israel and the radical Palestinian movement Hamas to resolve differences over the implementation of Trump's plan.

Despite the fact that both Israel and Hamas have stated that they generally support Trump's 20-point plan, there are differences between the warring parties. According to a diplomat with knowledge of the talks, these include Hamas' concerns about the demand for its disarmament, the scope of Israel's gradual withdrawal from the Gaza Strip, and the role of the international stabilization force to be deployed in the enclave.

The source also added that the Arab states are concerned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has amended some parts of Trump's plan to include information on the timing and locations of the redeployment of Israeli troops.

Earlier it became known that Trump plans to address the country's parliament during his visit to Israel. The American leader may make a speech after the conclusion of the deal on the Gas sector.