US President Donald Trump has declared that the “war is over” in Gaza as he makes his way to Israel, a trip focused on the release of hostages. Speaking from Air Force One, he conveyed confidence that the current ceasefire would be maintained and announced plans to establish a “Board of Peace” for Gaza, which he described as looking like a “demolition site.”
President Trump lauded the efforts of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar in mediating the peace process. The deadline for Hamas to release all remaining hostages is set for midday local time (10:00 BST). Following his visit to Israel, Trump is scheduled to travel to Egypt for an international summit aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict.
The current conflict began with Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. In response, Israel’s military actions have led to a significant Palestinian death toll, with the Hamas-run health ministry reporting over 67,000 fatalities, including more than 18,000 children.
The ceasefire, which commenced on Friday morning, is the first phase of a 20-point peace plan brokered by President Trump, with subsequent phases requiring further negotiation. It is understood that twenty Israeli hostages are currently believed to be alive, and Hamas is also expected to return the remains of up to 28 deceased hostages. In exchange, Israel is set to release approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 detainees, alongside an increase in humanitarian aid entering the Gaza Strip. An Israeli government spokesperson confirmed that these releases would proceed once the living hostages reach Israeli territory.
When questioned about the ceasefire’s stability, President Trump expressed certainty, stating, “everybody is happy, and I think it’s going to stay that way.” He also commented on his conflict resolution skills, saying, “I’m good at solving wars. I’m good at making peace.” He indicated a willingness to visit Gaza, noting, “I’d like to put my feet on it, at least,” and expressed his belief that Gaza could become a “miracle” in the coming decades.
Trump plans to address Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, upon his arrival. Subsequently, he will lead a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Egypt’s foreign ministry anticipates the signing of a document to formally end the war in Gaza. The summit is expected to be attended by leaders from over 20 countries, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.