Trump Declares Gaza War 'Over', Heads to Israel for Hostage Release
US President Donald Trump has declared the war in Gaza “over,” as he heads to Israel and Egypt to celebrate a ceasefire and a captive-prisoner exchange deal. The announcement comes as thousands of Palestinians continue to journey towards Gaza City, hopeful that the ceasefire will bring an end to the ongoing conflict.
Background and Context
The conflict between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas has raged on since October 7, 2023. Israel initiated a retaliatory offensive following a Hamas attack, causing significant damage and loss of life in the Gaza Strip. An estimated 78% of all structures in Gaza have been damaged or destroyed as per a United Nations Satellite Center report. Amidst this turmoil, Trump's sudden announcement of the end of the war has stirred cautious hope amongst the war-weary Palestinians.
Key Developments
Trump is set to address Israel's parliament and meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the families of the hostages. A summit on Gaza's future is also scheduled, with more than 20 countries' leaders joining the US president in Egypt. However, representatives from Israel and Hamas will not be attending the ceremony. The US president has mentioned verbal guarantees
that the Gaza deal won't fall through.
In a significant move towards peace, all living hostages held by Hamas are expected to be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The release is scheduled for Monday or Tuesday, as per Trump's statement. The president is also expected to co-chair a Gaza peace summit in Egypt with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to discuss proposals for ending the conflict.
Implications and Reactions
The Gaza ceasefire agreement has drawn mixed reactions from various quarters. While some view it as a victory for resistance, others question its long-term sustainability and implications. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his demand for Hamas to disarm, threatening a return to war if necessary. Meanwhile, in the Palestinian community, there is a blend of skepticism and cautious hope regarding the ceasefire plan.
US Senator John Fetterman has called on pro-Palestinian protesters to demand Hamas's acceptance of the peace deal. On the other side, the war's human cost continues to weigh heavily, with families of hostages still uncertain about their loved ones' fate.
Conclusion
As Trump arrives in Israel to celebrate the ceasefire and hostage release deal, the Middle East holds its breath. The war in Gaza, marked by destruction and loss, has reached a turning point. Yet, the path to a lasting peace remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties. Whether the ceasefire will hold and lead to a “normalization” of the region, as Trump suggests, remains to be seen.