Trump Declares Gaza War Over As Hamas Frees All Israeli Hostages In Two Phases

International News: In a dramatic development, Hamas freed all twenty Israeli hostages on Monday under a ceasefire deal mediated by global powers. The release happened in two stages monitored by the Red Cross. In the first phase, seven hostages were handed over in the morning, followed by the release of thirteen more in the evening. Families had been waiting for two years to see their loved ones return. The release was celebrated as a breakthrough moment after a brutal conflict that had caused immense suffering. Officials described it as the beginning of a new chapter in the troubled region.

Trump arrives and hails ceasefire

US President Donald Trump landed in Israel just before the second round of releases. Speaking at a press conference, he declared that the war was over and called it a great day for peace. He expressed confidence that Hamas would follow the disarmament plan included in the ceasefire framework. Trump will later travel to Egypt to co-chair the Gaza Peace Summit with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. His statement lifted hopes across Israel that the years of war might finally be ending. Many observers said his presence had added significant weight to the peace process.

Prisoner swap forms key part

The hostage release was part of a wider exchange under which Israel will free more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. The deal includes 250 Palestinians from Israeli jails and nearly 1,700 detainees from Gaza. In return, Hamas agreed to release twenty hostages, all of whom are now back in Israel. The International Red Cross confirmed its role in the safe transfers. This exchange has been described as the most critical step to build trust between the two sides. Despite criticism from hardliners, the move is widely seen as necessary for keeping the ceasefire alive.

Families rejoice after long wait

Before their release, several hostages spoke with families through video calls arranged by mediators. These conversations were filled with emotions after more than two years of separation. Relatives were seen crying with relief as they saw their loved ones alive. In Tel Aviv, large crowds gathered in Hostage Square, waving flags and carrying signs with names of those still missing. Some played traditional instruments, while others lit candles and prayed together. The atmosphere was one of cautious hope, as people dared to believe peace could be closer than ever before.

Israeli army confirms safe return

The Israeli Defense Forces posted updates on social media under the operation titled “Returning Home.” Commanders and soldiers were seen saluting and hugging the freed hostages as they arrived. Medical teams carried out initial checks to ensure their health. The army requested citizens to respect the privacy of the returnees and rely only on official information. Officials confirmed that preparations were underway to receive additional bodies of deceased hostages. The carefully planned operations highlighted both the sensitivity and importance of the process. Israelis watched live broadcasts, cheering every confirmation of safe returns.

Public celebrations across the nation

Across Israel, citizens poured onto streets to welcome the news. In towns and cities, big screens broadcast the live handovers, sparking waves of cheers and applause. In southern Israel, near a military base, groups gathered with national flags, holding prayers at sunrise. Many wore shirts bearing the names and photos of hostages. Some wept openly as the emotional moment sank in. The nationwide celebrations captured the collective relief of a country that had endured two years of fear and uncertainty. The sense of unity was visible in every corner of the nation.

Summit prepares for next phase

While hostages returned home, global attention turned to Egypt, where Trump and more than twenty leaders gathered in Sharm el-Sheikh for the Gaza Peace Summit. The summit aims to establish a new international body, nicknamed the “Peace Board,” to oversee the ceasefire and reconstruction. However, big challenges remain unresolved, including Gaza’s governance, Israel’s troop withdrawal, and Hamas’s future. Trump’s twenty-point plan is only partly accepted by Hamas, raising doubts about the durability of peace. Analysts warn that despite the success of the prisoner swap, the road ahead is uncertain and fragile.