Washington D.C. – United States President Donald Trump has declared the Gaza war over before departing for a historic Middle East visit that will witness the release of Israeli hostages after more than two years of conflict. The announcement marks a significant turning point in one of the region’s most protracted conflicts.
Speaking to media aboard Air Force One, Trump made the emphatic declaration: “The war is over. Okay? You understand that?” The President’s statement comes as Israel and Hamas prepare for the first phase of a comprehensive ceasefire agreement brokered by his administration.
Trump’s Middle East Itinerary
The President’s journey begins in Israel, where he is scheduled to address the country’s parliament. Following this historic address, Trump will travel to Egypt to co-host a Gaza peace summit alongside Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The summit will bring together world leaders to support and solidify the peace deal that officially marks the Gaza war over.
Trump described the trip as “special,” noting the significance of the moment. “Everybody’s very excited about this moment in time. This is a very special event,” he told reporters during his departure.
The President is accompanied by a high-level delegation including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA chief John Ratcliffe, and top US military officer Dan Caine, underscoring the importance of this diplomatic mission.
Ceasefire Agreement Details
When questioned about the durability of the ceasefire that has made the Gaza war over, Trump expressed confidence in its longevity. “I think [the ceasefire] is going to hold… I think people are tired,” he stated, acknowledging the war-weariness affecting all parties involved.
The first stage of the peace deal involves the release of 20 living Israeli hostages who have been held since the October 7 attack. Trump revealed that these hostages were held “in places that you don’t want to know about,” highlighting the difficult conditions they endured.
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In exchange for the hostages’ release, Israel has agreed to free approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners from its detention facilities. Additionally, humanitarian aid will be permitted to enter the Gaza Strip, addressing the urgent needs of the civilian population.
Trump mentioned uncertainty about whether he would be present for the actual hostage release, noting, “They have the hostages — I understand all 20 — and we may get them out a little bit early.”
Netanyahu Declares Victory
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu echoed Trump’s sentiment that the Gaza war over represents a significant achievement. In an emotional address on Sunday, Netanyahu declared victory while acknowledging the ongoing challenges ahead.
“Together we achieved tremendous victories, victories that amazed the whole world… But at the same time I must tell you, the fight is not over,” Netanyahu told his nation. His statement balanced celebration with caution, recognizing that while the Gaza war over militarily, the work of rebuilding and reconciliation remains.
Netanyahu described the evening as one filled with mixed emotions: “This is an emotional evening, an evening of tears, an evening of joy, because tomorrow our children will return to our borders.” He quoted biblical verses to emphasize the significance of the hostages’ homecoming after their prolonged captivity.
Uncertain Future Stages
While the first phase of the agreement appears clearly defined with the Gaza war over proclamation, questions remain about subsequent stages of the ceasefire deal. The details of how the peace will be maintained long-term and what additional steps will be required from both sides remain unclear.
The international community’s involvement through the Egypt peace summit suggests a multilateral approach to ensuring the sustainability of the agreement that has made the Gaza war over. World leaders gathering in Egypt will likely discuss implementation mechanisms and guarantees to prevent future conflicts.
A Historic Moment
Trump’s declaration that the Gaza war over represents more than two years of intense diplomatic effort culminating in this breakthrough. The conflict, which began with the October 7 attack, has resulted in significant casualties and humanitarian suffering on both sides.
The President’s confidence in the ceasefire holding reflects hope that exhaustion from prolonged conflict will motivate all parties to honor their commitments. As Trump embarks on this crucial Middle East mission, the world watches to see whether this declaration that the Gaza war over will translate into lasting peace.
The coming days will be critical as the hostage release unfolds and the peace summit convenes, potentially setting the stage for a new chapter in Middle East relations.
