Trump Declares “The War Is Over” as Middle East Peace Deal Enters Critical Phase One
the staff of the Ridgewood blog
JERUSALEM / GAZA – In a moment of profound relief and historic diplomatic success, Hamas on Monday released all 20 remaining living Israeli hostages captured during the October 7, 2023, terrorist attacks, marking a definitive milestone in the first phase of a U.S.-brokered Middle East peace deal to end the conflict in Gaza.
The final group of captives was transferred to the custody of the Red Cross, following an earlier release of seven individuals. The total of 20 returning hostages, all of whom are men, were then quickly met by the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) for medical assessments before being reunited with their families in Israel.
IDF & US Envoy Welcome Returning Hostages
The emotional return was confirmed by IDF spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nadav Shoshani, who posted on X: “The commanders and soldiers of the IDF salute and embrace the returning hostages as they make their way home to the State of Israel.”
The relief was echoed by President Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, who was instrumental in the negotiations. Posting on X, Witkoff wrote: “I wondered if I would ever see this day. It’s deeply gratifying to know that so many families will finally have their loved ones home. Today, twenty families are spared the unbearable pain of not knowing if they will ever see their loved ones again.”
Witkoff also acknowledged the hostages who will not return alive, adding, “Bringing their bodies home is a must and an act of dignity and honors their memory forever.” Hamas is expected to release the bodies of 26 deceased hostages as the peace agreement progresses.
The Prisoner Exchange and Trump’s Middle East Trip
The release of the hostages triggers the reciprocal action by Israel. As part of this first phase of the agreement, Israel is expected to release approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.
The breakthrough coincides with a whirlwind diplomatic trip by President Donald Trump to the region. After addressing Israeli leaders at the Knesset and meeting privately with hostage families, Trump will travel to Egypt for a signing ceremony of the peace deal.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, the President made a powerful declaration: “The war is over.”
While experts and even some in the administration caution that this is merely “phase one” of a complex deal—with major issues like the future governance of Gaza and the disarmament of Hamas still to be resolved—the return of the last living hostages is being widely hailed as a monumental step toward a lasting peace.
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MSM having to cover this and give Trump full credit is Christmas in October.
Peace by strength. FAFO
AOC? Hello. And comments?