US President Donald Trump announced with certainty that all individuals held captive in Gaza, including the remains of those who died, would “all be back” by Monday. This hopeful declaration follows a ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Hamas group. The President shared his thoughts during a phone interview with Fox News late on Wednesday, October 8.
The interview happened just hours after a new 20-point peace initiative became public. This plan aims to end a harsh, two-year conflict that has brought much destruction to Gaza and created a deep humanitarian crisis. Under the terms, Hamas must release all hostages. In return, Israeli forces will move back to agreed-upon lines. Trump noted that these negotiations were conducted indirectly, with Egypt playing a key role.
President Trump sees this agreement as a stepping stone for wider peace in the Middle East. He even suggested that Iran, a long-standing rival of both Israel and the US, might get involved. “This is more than just about Gaza,” Trump stated. “This is peace in the Middle East.” He added his belief that “Iran will actually become part of this whole peace situation.” He went on to say that “the world has come together for this deal.” He called it “excellent for Israel, excellent for Muslims, for Arab countries, and excellent for the United States.”
Trump also expressed optimism for Gaza’s future, envisioning its rebirth as a thriving hub. He believes Gaza “will be rebuilt, and other countries in the area will help rebuild it.” He pointed out that these nations have “tremendous wealth, and they want this to happen.” The US, he confirmed, intends to play a part in making sure the deal works and that peace continues in the region.
However, the agreement shared on Wednesday offers only limited specifics. Many details are still up in the air. This could lead to difficulties, much like earlier attempts to find peace. The Israeli government is scheduled to meet on Thursday, October 9, to review and approve the deal. If they give it the green light, the ceasefire will begin right away. Hamas has also agreed to the terms outlined in the agreement.
Source: Reuters