Jerusalem: Emotions ran high across Israel as families welcomed home hostages who had been held in Gaza for nearly two years. The long-awaited releases came under a ceasefire agreement brokered with crucial involvement from U.S. President Donald Trump, whose visit to Israel was marked by both celebration and cautious relief.
The deal, reached after weeks of delicate negotiations, has brought a temporary halt to the fighting that devastated much of Gaza and left tens of thousands dead. Under the agreement, Hamas is releasing 20 Israeli hostages believed to be alive, along with the remains of 28 others who died in captivity. In exchange, Israel has agreed to free more than 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including many detained since the war erupted in October 2023.
Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, paid tribute to President Trump for his role in securing the truce and facilitating the releases. Lawmakers credited him with reviving stalled diplomatic channels and helping open the door to renewed peace efforts. “This is a day of gratitude and hope,” said one member of the Knesset, as crowds gathered outside waving both Israeli and American flags.
The ceasefire, now in its third day, has allowed hundreds of aid trucks to enter Gaza, delivering food, fuel, and medical supplies to a population struggling to recover from months of siege and bombardment. Thousands of displaced Palestinians have begun returning to the ruins of their homes, facing dire shortages of clean water and electricity.
Despite the temporary calm, Israeli officials have emphasized that the truce does not mark the end of the conflict.
Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that military operations would resume if Hamas fails to comply with the agreement or re-arms during the lull.
Meanwhile, many families of hostages still unaccounted for remain in anguish, urging the government to continue efforts until everyone is brought home.
President Trump, who arrived in Jerusalem late Sunday, was greeted with applause and banners thanking him for his mediation. In a speech to the Knesset, he declared, “The war is over, but peace must now be built with courage.” He is expected to travel next to Egypt for a regional peace summit, where world leaders will discuss plans for Gaza’s reconstruction and long-term stability.
Across Israel, the return of the hostages has sparked a mix of joy and sorrow relief for those reunited with loved ones and grief for those who did not survive. The moment marks a fragile turning point in a war that has scarred both Israelis and Palestinians, leaving an uncertain path ahead but a shared longing for peace.