U.S. President Donald Trump has arrived in Israel to deliver a historic address to the nation’s parliament, marking a major step in global efforts to end the devastating conflict in Gaza.
He was warmly received by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his wife Sara, and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, one of the key figures behind the ceasefire negotiations.
Speaking aboard Air Force One before landing, Trump declared, “The war is over.” He expressed confidence that the ceasefire would hold, adding that a “Board of Peace” would soon be established to help rebuild Gaza — which he described as resembling a “demolition site.”
The President commended both Netanyahu and Qatar for their crucial roles in securing the truce.
Under the agreement, Hamas has until midday local time to release all remaining hostages still held in Gaza. Earlier, seven hostages were handed over to the Red Cross, marking the first release since the ceasefire deal was signed. While details about their health remain unclear, reports of their release have sparked relief and celebration among families and supporters across Israel.
The war, which began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel left around 1,200 people dead and 251 taken hostage, has caused immense suffering on both sides. According to the Gaza health ministry, more than 67,000 Palestinians, including over 18,000 children, have lost their lives in Israel’s military response.
The new ceasefire, which took effect Friday morning, marks the first stage of a 20-point peace plan brokered by Trump. The agreement outlines the release of 20 surviving hostages, along with the remains of up to 28 deceased captives, in exchange for Israel freeing 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 Gaza detainees.
The plan also paves the way for increased humanitarian aid to flow into the Gaza Strip, as both sides prepare for further negotiations on the remaining terms of the peace deal.
