CAIRO/JERUSALEM – In a landmark development, U.S. President Donald Trump announced the end of the two-year-long Gaza war after a historic agreement led to the release of the last Israeli hostages from Gaza and the return of hundreds of Palestinian detainees to their homes. The deal was mediated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.
Trump convened a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh with more than 20 world leaders to discuss the future of Gaza and potential regional peace, even though representatives from Israel and Hamas were absent. At the event, Trump signed a joint declaration with Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey committing to sustain the ceasefire and facilitate reconstruction in Gaza.
The release of the final Israeli hostages, some of whom were captured during the Hamas-led attacks of October 2023, sparked emotional reunions at Tel Aviv’s “Hostage Square.” Meanwhile, buses carrying Palestinian prisoners freed by Israel arrived in Gaza, greeted by thousands of relatives celebrating their return.
“This moment marks a long-awaited pause to the conflict,” Trump said, emphasizing that the ceasefire could pave the way for wider peace efforts in the Middle East. Aid agencies stressed the urgent need to deliver food, medicine, and shelter to the hundreds of thousands affected by the war.
Despite this breakthrough, significant challenges remain. The identification of deceased hostages, reconstruction of Gaza, governance, and the disarmament of Hamas fighters are unresolved issues that could affect the durability of peace. Tensions persist in the West Bank, where settlement expansion continues to fuel conflict.
The ceasefire agreement, brokered under Trump’s leadership, is seen as the first phase toward stabilizing Gaza and restoring hope for the affected populations. Both Israelis and Palestinians expressed relief and cautious optimism, with families reunited and communities beginning the slow process of recovery.
The Gaza war has left deep scars on the region, but the successful hostage swap and Trump’s mediation have created a rare moment of calm and potential for long-term dialogue.
