Trump sounded optimistic in an exclusive interview with NBC News on Sunday ahead of the crucial talks. Trump and Netanyahu are expected to meet in the Oval Office, with a news conference to follow. At least 48 hostages are believed to remain held in Gaza, of whom only 20 are believed to be alive. Since then, more than 66,000 people have been killed in Gaza under Israel’s assault, including thousands of children, while much of the enclave has been destroyed. Palestinian residents reported heavy strikes Tuesday across Gaza City and Israel’s defense minister said that “Gaza is burning” as a new Israeli ground offensive targeted the city.