US President Donald Trump announced that “the war is over” as he traveled to Israel to oversee the release of hostages from Gaza under a ceasefire agreed between Israel and Hamas. The announcement comes after a devastating conflict that began on October 7, 2023, and claimed thousands of lives on both sides.
What Happened
Trump spoke aboard Air Force One, emphasizing that the ceasefire would hold and announcing plans for a “Board of Peace” to be established quickly in Gaza, which he described as looking like a “demolition site.” He praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar, one of the mediators, for their roles in brokering the ceasefire.
The deadline for Hamas to release all remaining hostages in Gaza is set for midday local time (10:00 BST). Later on Monday, Trump is scheduled to travel to Egypt to lead an international summit aimed at formally ending the war.
The conflict began when Hamas-led forces attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing around 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages. Israel’s military response has since resulted in more than 67,000 Palestinian deaths, including over 18,000 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
Hostage and Prisoner Exchange
Under the first phase of a 20-point peace plan brokered by Trump, twenty Israeli hostages are believed to be alive, while Hamas is set to hand over the remains of up to 28 deceased hostages. Israel has agreed to release approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 detainees from Gaza, alongside increasing the flow of aid into the Strip. The Israeli government confirmed that releases would occur once the living hostages are returned to Israeli territory.
Trump’s Statements and Peace Plans
When asked if the ceasefire would hold, Trump stated, “everybody is happy, and I think it’s going to stay that way.” On his role in peace negotiations, he said: “I’m good at solving wars. I’m good at making peace.” He also expressed interest in visiting Gaza, calling it a place that could be a “miracle” in the coming decades.
Trump reiterated that a supervisory body, the “Board of Peace,” would be established quickly to oversee Gaza and facilitate normalization in the region.
Public Reaction
Hundreds of thousands of Israelis gathered in Tel Aviv on Saturday to show their gratitude, chanting their support for Trump. The announcement of the ceasefire has been met with cautious optimism, though many aspects of the broader peace plan, including Gaza governance, Israeli troop withdrawal, and Hamas disarmament, remain to be negotiated.
Upcoming Summit in Egypt
Trump is set to address Israel’s Knesset before traveling to Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt, to lead a summit alongside President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. A document formalizing the end of the war in Gaza is expected to be signed at the summit. Leaders from over 20 countries, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, are anticipated to attend.
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted that Egypt invited Iran to the summit, but stated that engagement would not be possible with countries “who have attacked the Iranian people and continue to threaten and sanction us.”
Closing Line
This story may be updated with more information as the situation develops. The international community is watching closely as negotiations aim to solidify lasting peace in Gaza.
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