Did Trump Receive a Hero's Welcome in Israel as Hamas Releases Hostages?
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Synopsis
In a historic moment, US President Donald Trump is welcomed by Israeli leaders as he arrives in Jerusalem amidst a pivotal time in the Israel-Hamas conflict. With a peace summit on the horizon, hopes rise for a lasting resolution as hostages are released. Will this visit mark the beginning of a new era in Middle Eastern relations?
Key Takeaways
- Trump's visit is historic as it coincides with a ceasefire announcement.
- The peace summit aims to address ongoing tensions in Gaza.
- International support is crucial for the success of the peace process.
- Celebrations on both sides reflect a desire for peace.
- The next step requires disarmament by Hamas.
Jerusalem, Oct 13 (NationPress) - Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog warmly greeted US President Donald Trump upon his arrival at Ben-Gurion International Airport on Monday. Accompanying them were Netanyahu's wife, Sara, and Herzog's wife, Michal.
Later today, Trump is expected to deliver an address to the Israeli Knesset, after which he will head to Egypt for a summit involving numerous international leaders focused on the peace process regarding Gaza, which aims to conclude a two-year conflict.
Prior to his arrival in Israel, Trump proclaimed that the “war is over,” making these comments during a press briefing aboard Air Force One as he departed for Israel.
When questioned about the status of the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Trump reiterated, “The war is over. Ok. You understand that.”
Before boarding, Trump characterized his visit as a “special time.”
“This is going to be a very special time...There are 500,000 people yesterday and today in Israel. And also, the Muslim and Arab countries are all cheering. Everybody's cheering at one time. That's never happened before. Usually, if you have one cheering, the other isn't. This is the first time everybody is amazed, and they're thrilled, and it's an honour to be involved, and we're gonna have an amazing time, and it's gonna be something that's never happened before,” he said.
This marks Trump's first visit to Israel since announcing the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
The conflict erupted on October 7, 2023, when Hamas and its allies invaded Israel from Gaza, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken.
Hamas has previously released several hostages in exchange for Israel freeing Palestinian prisoners. Along with the remaining 20 hostages, Hamas was to deliver the bodies of around 20 individuals who died while in custody.
The peace agreement, based on a 20-point peace plan introduced by Trump, was facilitated by officials from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, with the involvement of some Americans, including Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.
Among the expected attendees at the summit are United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt, Emmanuel Macron of France, and Britain's Prime Minister Keir Starmer, along with leaders from Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.
It remains unclear if Israel will participate, and if so, at what level.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also extended an invitation by the summit's co-chairs, Trump and el-Sisi. However, he will not be attending; instead, Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh will represent India.
Trump expressed optimism that the ceasefire and subsequent phases of the peace plan would progress, citing the celebrations observed on both sides.
Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty also conveyed confidence regarding the peace holding.
The next step in the peace process requires Hamas to disarm.
Point of View
I affirm our commitment to delivering unbiased news. Trump's visit to Israel amid the ongoing conflict presents a complex scenario. The optimism surrounding the peace process must be balanced with the realities on the ground. Our coverage aims to provide clarity and insight into these pivotal events.
NationPress
13/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the significance of Trump's visit to Israel?
Trump's visit is significant as it marks his first trip since announcing a ceasefire deal, aiming to foster peace amidst the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.
How many hostages has Hamas released?
Hamas has previously released several hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, with 20 remaining hostages expected to be handed over.
Who are the key leaders attending the peace summit in Egypt?
Key attendees include UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, and leaders from Egypt, France, and the UK.
What is the next phase of the peace deal?
The next phase requires Hamas to lay down arms as part of the peace agreement.
What was Trump's statement regarding the war?
Trump stated, 'The war is over,' indicating optimism for peace in the region.
