Cheers erupted and tears flowed in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square. Thousands gathered, hugging each other, as news broke. The Israeli military confirmed a major moment: seven living Israeli hostages were finally free. This marked a vital step in calming the two-year conflict in Gaza.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) handled the handover. These first seven individuals had left Gaza safely. The ICRC is also working to release thirteen more confirmed living hostages. They expect all of them to be free by the end of today. Sadly, some remains of deceased hostages were also returned. In total, 28 hostages had died while in captivity.
At the same time, a significant exchange is underway. Nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners are being released from Israeli jails. Many of these prisoners were convicted of various offenses. Most of them are expected to arrive at Nasser Hospital in Gaza.
Donald Trump arrived in Israel shortly after the first hostage release was announced. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met him personally at the airport. Trump will deliver a speech to the Israeli parliament. This honor has only been given to three other US presidents: Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush. Later this year, Israel’s president will also give Trump the country’s highest civilian award.
This release of hostages is the cornerstone of the first phase of a ceasefire agreement. Leaders finalized this deal last week in Sharm El-Sheikh, Egypt. Today, October 13, over twenty world leaders will gather for a summit. Trump will be among them. They plan to discuss how to achieve lasting peace in the region. A new international group called the “Board of Peace” will guide the next steps. Trump will lead this important committee.
Even with these hopeful signs, finding lasting peace remains a tricky challenge. Many important points in Trump’s 20-point plan still need agreement. For example, how will Gaza be managed once the fighting stops? And what will happen to Hamas? Israel insists that Hamas must disarm, but the group has refused this demand.
Source: Reuters