Former US President Donald Trump stated on Tuesday that a significant burden had been lifted following the release of 20 living hostages by Hamas from Gaza. “ALL TWENTY HOSTAGES ARE BACK AND FEELING AS GOOD AS CAN BE EXPECTED,” Trump posted on Truth Social, acknowledging the relief but emphasizing, “the job IS NOT DONE.” He highlighted that the remains of hostages who perished had not been returned, contrary to promises.
Trump further indicated that “Phase 2” of his ‘Peace Plan’ had commenced. Israel received the group of hostages as part of the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement. This release involved 20 living hostages in exchange for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Previously, on October 9, Trump had announced an agreement between Israel and Hamas for the “first phase” of a plan aimed at halting the conflict in Gaza and securing the release of hostages and prisoners. The ceasefire terms stipulated the return of “all hostages, alive and deceased” within 72 hours of the agreement’s acceptance. Hamas was also expected to provide information on remaining hostages and make maximum efforts to fulfill these commitments.
Meanwhile, Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu expressed anticipation for news regarding the remaining deceased hostages in Gaza, stating, “We will soon receive news — hopefully within hours — about the return of additional fallen hostages.” He reiterated their determination “to bring everyone back” while visiting the freed hostages in a hospital in central Israel.