Special envoy Steve Whitcoff said on Monday that Hamas’ initial response to US President Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza was “very positive.”

Whitcoff added in an interview with Fox News on Monday that “Hamas’ initial response to President Trump’s plan through Qatar and Egypt is very positive, although no final position has been presented yet.”

Whitcoff confirmed that Trump “wants a comprehensive peace not limited to Gaza but including the Middle East, which could even impact Russia and Ukraine.”

He expressed optimism about the success of Trump’s plan to stop the war in Gaza, adding: “I have great hope for its success.”

He continued: “We have broad support from the Arab Gulf countries, Europeans, and direct communication with Britain and France.”

He concluded by saying: “There are still details that need work, but I am optimistic about President Trump’s nature and his ability to push everyone towards a final agreement.”

Trump said Monday evening that “today is a historic day for peace,” noting he was optimistic about receiving a “positive answer” from Hamas regarding his plan to end the war in Gaza.

During a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said: “Today is a historic day for peace.”

Trump thanked Netanyahu “for agreeing to this plan that will open a new page of prosperity for the region.. and I thank the proposals of Arab and Islamic countries and European allies to develop the current peace proposal.”

He confirmed: “We are very close to reaching a peace agreement regarding the Gaza Strip.. if Hamas agrees to the proposal, hostages will be released within 72 hours.”

He highlighted: “Arab and Islamic countries have pledged to disarm Gaza, Hamas, and all other terrorist organizations immediately, and we rely on these countries to deal with Hamas.. and from what I heard, Hamas also wants to achieve that.”

Trump added: “I have a feeling we will get a positive answer from Hamas.. and if that doesn’t happen, Israel will have my full support.”

He continued: “Netanyahu strongly opposes the establishment of a Palestinian state, and I understand that. Netanyahu is a warrior and Israel is lucky to have him, but the people want peace.”

Netanyahu said: “Now, we are taking a pivotal step to end the war in Gaza and lay the groundwork for peace in the Middle East,” adding: “I support your (Trump’s) plan to end the war in Gaza, which has achieved our military goals as well as the return of hostages to Israel, dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities and political rule, and ensuring Gaza no longer threatens Israel’s security.”