Trump brokers Gaza ceasefire, releases hostages and prisoners

Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees were freed as part of a US-brokered ceasefire deal aimed at ending two years of war in Gaza. The exchange marked a significant step towards peace, with Hamas returning living Israeli hostages and Israel freeing almost 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees. US President Donald Trump hailed the deal as a 'historic dawn' in the Middle East and met with world leaders in Egypt to discuss the next phases of the peace plan. However, challenges remain, including the extent of Israeli troop withdrawal, disarmament of Hamas, and future governance of Gaza.

Twenty Israeli hostages, held captive in Gaza for two years after the Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, were released and reunited with their families. The hostages were collected by the International Committee of the Red Cross and airlifted to hospitals for medical treatment. The release was part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, which also involved the release of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. Families of the hostages expressed joy and relief, but also emphasized that there could be no closure until all hostages, including those killed in captivity, were returned.

Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees were released by Israel as part of a prisoner exchange deal with Hamas, involving 20 Israeli hostages and the remains of four deceased hostages. The released Palestinians were welcomed with joy and tears by their families in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. The release was part of phase one of Donald Trump's peace plan aimed at ending the war in Gaza, triggered by Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on 7 October 2023. The prisoners, some of whom had been convicted of serious crimes including murder, were released into the West Bank and Gaza, with some being deported to other locations. The release was met with jubilation, despite some families expressing pain and sorrow. The BBC reported that some prisoners had faced mistreatment in Israeli prisons, including beatings and starvation.

The Israeli military has confirmed that 20 living hostages have been released by Hamas and returned to Israel. The hostages were among the 251 people abducted during Hamas's attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The released hostages include twin brothers Gali and Ziv Berman, Ariel Cunio's brother David Cunio's family members, Avinatan Or, Matan Angrest, Matan Zangauker, Eitan Horn, Nimrod Cohen, Omri Miran, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Alon Ohel, Yosef-Chaim Ohana, Elkana Bohbot, Eitan Mor, Maxim Herkin, Bar Kupershtein, Segev Kalfon, Evyatar David, and Rom Braslabski. Some hostages were released during previous ceasefires, while others were rescued by the Israeli military. The article provides details about the experiences of the released hostages, including their conditions during captivity and their reunions with their families.

The article reports on the release of 20 hostages by Hamas under a ceasefire deal, bringing an end to their captivity in Gaza. The hostages, including civilians and soldiers, were taken during the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. The article provides details on the released hostages, their experiences, and the reactions of their families. It also provides context on the conflict, including the number of casualties and displaced persons.

Egypt's Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty was interviewed on 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan' on October 12, 2025. He discussed the upcoming meeting between President Trump and President al-Sisi regarding the Gaza agreement, expressing confidence in the implementation of the first phase of the Trump peace plan. Abdelatty mentioned that Egypt is working on training Palestinians to be deployed in Gaza and is open to committing troops as part of an international force, pending a UN Security Council mandate. He emphasized the need for a comprehensive solution, including the realization of a Palestinian state, and highlighted the importance of international cooperation for the reconstruction of Gaza.

Representative Jim Himes, Democrat of Connecticut and top Democrat on the Intelligence Committee, was interviewed on 'Face the Nation with Margaret Brennan.' Himes discussed the US involvement in Ukraine, stating that the Trump administration's actions are not a significant departure from the previous administration. He also expressed concerns about the US military's actions in Venezuela, calling the lethal strikes on vessels 'illegal killings' due to lack of clear legal authority. Himes criticized the administration's legal justifications and warned that the chain of command may be at risk for prosecution. The conversation also touched on the potential shutdown and its impact on Connecticut.

US President Trump addressed the Israeli Knesset, hailing a 'historic dawn of a new Middle East' following the release of 20 hostages held by Hamas for over two years. Trump praised special envoy Steve Witkoff for his role in negotiations and criticized those who doubted his ability to achieve peace. He also called for Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Netanyahu, who faces corruption charges. The speech was met with standing ovations, except for two lawmakers who were ejected for holding up signs calling for Palestine's recognition. Trump met with hostage families before traveling to Egypt for a peace signing ceremony.

The Gaza peace plan brokered by President Trump has moved forward with Hamas releasing 20 living Israeli hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners and detainees. The release is part of the 20-point peace plan, which also includes a surge of humanitarian aid to Gaza and a partial pullback by Israeli forces. The situation remains fragile, with major questions over what comes next still to be answered. Negotiations over next steps are challenging due to the lack of trust between Israel and Hamas. The plan's later phases will address issues such as Gaza's postwar governance, Israel's demand that Hamas disarm, and Palestinian demands for a state. The reconstruction of Gaza is estimated to cost at least $53 billion.

The article discusses the recent visit of US President Donald Trump to the Middle East, where he claimed to have brought peace to the region. However, clashes between Hamas and armed gangs in Gaza threaten to undermine his peace plan. The article examines the situation on the ground and the challenges facing Trump's efforts to achieve a lasting peace.

The Economist's Middle East & Africa section covers various news stories, including the fragile ceasefire in Gaza, the impact of Donald Trump's peace plan, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Western Tigray. Other articles discuss the resumption of a gas project in Mozambique, the rise of ageing autocrats in Africa, and tensions between Eritrea and Ethiopia. The section also includes analysis on the Israel-Hamas war and the prospects for peace talks.

The article discusses the fragile truce in Gaza, with Hamas expressing optimism about peace talks, but uncertainty surrounding Israel's partial withdrawal. The situation remains complex, with clashes between Hamas and armed gangs threatening the peace plan. The article highlights the challenges in achieving lasting peace in the region.

The article discusses how President Donald Trump's achievement in brokering a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal could potentially change his presidency, but it's uncertain whether it will lead to a more conciliatory approach at home. Trump's success in the Middle East was seen as a validation of his unconventional approach to foreign policy, which includes trusting his gut and using real estate moguls as negotiators. The deal raises questions about its sustainability and whether Trump will stay engaged to ensure its success. The article also explores the implications of Trump's success for his other global ventures, such as his stalled peace push in Ukraine.

The article reports on the release of 20 Israeli hostages held in Gaza for over two years, their reunion with families, and the subsequent medical care they received. It also covers related events such as the release of Palestinian prisoners, President Donald Trump's visit to Israel, and his speech to the Knesset. The article highlights the emotional reunions between hostages and their families, as well as the political implications of Trump's visit and the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

The article discusses various actions and statements made by President Donald Trump, including his complimentary remarks towards Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, calling her 'beautiful' during the Gaza summit. It also covers Trump's involvement in brokering a Gaza ceasefire deal, his interactions with other world leaders, and various other political developments and controversies surrounding his administration.

President Donald Trump declined to commit to a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine after brokering a historic peace deal between Israel and Hamas, releasing 20 hostages. Trump focused on rebuilding Gaza and coordinating with regional partners on the matter. The peace deal, signed at a global peace summit in Egypt, aims to end two years of fighting in Gaza. However, the situation remains fragile as negotiations over postwar governance and disarmament continue.

Dozens have been killed in Gaza during violent fighting between Hamas militants and the Doghmush clan militia, hours before the expected release of hostages in the war-torn region. The clashes occurred as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was set to address the nation, calling the imminent hostage release 'the beginning of a new path.' The violence erupted when Hamas militants raided the Sabra neighborhood in Gaza City, targeting the Doghmush clan over alleged Israeli cooperation. At least 64 people were reportedly killed in the fighting. Amidst the bloodshed, three anti-Hamas militias declared their support for President Trump's peace proposal. Israel said Hamas is expected to release 20 living hostages to the Red Cross by Monday.

Hamas released 20 Israeli hostages after 738 days in captivity as part of a deal aimed at ending two years of war. The hostages were reunited with their families in Israel and will undergo medical checks. The release is seen as a significant step towards peace, with President Donald Trump declaring it a 'monumental moment' for the world. However, major questions remain unanswered, and the risk of sliding back into war remains.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised President Donald Trump as Israel's 'greatest friend' as Hamas released the last 20 living hostages under a new peace deal. The deal, brokered by Trump administration officials, includes a prisoner exchange and a sweeping 20-point peace plan aimed at ending the conflict and rebuilding Gaza. Netanyahu thanked Trump for his support of Israel, including standing up for Israel at the United Nations and withdrawing from the Iran nuclear deal. The peace plan includes the creation of a U.S.-led International Stabilization Force to train Palestinian police and oversee disarmament, as well as a Trump-led economic development plan to transform Gaza into a 'thriving modern miracle city'.

A couple, Avinatan Or and Noa Argamani, who were separated and taken hostage by Hamas during the Nova music festival on October 7, 2023, were reunited after more than two years apart. Argamani was rescued in June 2024, while Or remained in captivity until his release on Monday. The reunion came after President Donald Trump secured a peace deal with Hamas, leading to the release of the remaining hostages in Gaza. The couple's story is one of hope and resilience amidst the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Former US President Donald Trump addressed the Israeli parliament, calling for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to be pardoned from fraud and bribery charges. Trump praised Netanyahu as Israel's greatest friend and expressed support for him despite his ongoing legal issues. The speech came after the release of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas, which Trump hailed as a significant achievement. Trump's comments sparked a mixed reaction, with some lawmakers applauding his suggestion while others, including left-wing members of parliament, protested during his address.

US President Donald Trump visited Israel to oversee a historic prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas, releasing 20 Israeli hostages and around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Trump hailed the event as a 'new beginning' for the Middle East and addressed the Israeli parliament, praising the agreement as a significant step towards peace. He plans to declare 'the historic dawn of a new Middle East' and will lead a summit in Egypt with leaders from over 20 countries to discuss peace in Gaza and the broader region. The agreement has been praised by world leaders as a landmark deal mediated by the US.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's advisor, Caroline Glick, expressed confidence in President Donald Trump's Gaza peace plan, stating it would give Israel the means to dismantle Hamas. The plan involves a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, demobilization and demilitarization of Hamas, and the establishment of a temporary technocratic administration in Gaza. Experts warn that the plan may be a 'pause' before Hamas strikes again, and that some Palestinian prisoners to be released are 'arch-terrorists' who have not renounced violence.

The US plan for the future governance of the Gaza Strip, outlined in President Donald Trump's 20-point plan, has been criticized for lacking democratic elements and reviving echoes of colonial rule. The plan proposes a temporary technocratic committee overseen by an international 'Board of Peace' before handing over governance to the Palestinian Authority. Critics argue that the plan sidelines many Gazans and that the Palestinian Authority is unpopular and ineffective. The article discusses the potential governance of Gaza with expert Anne Irfan, highlighting the challenges and controversies surrounding the US plan.

Tens of thousands gathered in Tel Aviv's Hostages Square to celebrate the return of Israeli hostages held captive in Gaza for over two years. The atmosphere was electric, with chants of frustration turning into songs of celebration as families were reunited with their loved ones. While the return brought relief and closure, it also highlighted the deep sorrow and reckoning that follows the 7 October massacre, Israel's deadliest single-day attack since 1948. The event marked a beginning of the healing process for the nation, but also raised questions about accountability for the failures leading up to the attack and the efforts to secure the hostages' release.

The article reports on the release of 1,968 Palestinian prisoners by Israel as part of a ceasefire deal with Hamas. The released prisoners, who arrived in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, include dozens aged between 16 and 20, with at least two in their 70s. The data assessed by Sky News reveals the age range and affiliations of the released prisoners, with many having been imprisoned for attacks against Israelis. The release is part of a broader peace plan agreed upon by Israel and Hamas, which also saw the release of 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Hamas has released 20 Israeli hostages, all men aged between 20 and 48, in exchange for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners under a ceasefire deal brokered by US President Donald Trump. The hostages were held in Gaza for over two years after being taken during the October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel. The release was part of the first phase of Trump's ceasefire agreement, which also includes the handover of the remains of deceased hostages. The deal has been hailed as a 'historic dawn of a new Middle East' by Trump, who is visiting Israel and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to discuss the deal and post-war plans.

The article discusses Donald Trump's achievement in brokering a peace deal between Israel and Palestine, and the potential for a lasting resolution to the conflict. The author acknowledges that Trump's 'goldfish attention span' may be a concern, but argues that he is likely to stay the course due to his personal investment in the deal and the potential for future benefits, including the Nobel Peace Prize. The article highlights Trump's role in stopping the war, releasing hostages, and enabling aid to Gaza, as well as his commitment to a roadmap for peace. The author also notes that Trump's actions may be motivated by a desire to 'make America great again' and to benefit his own business interests.

US President Donald Trump addressed the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, ahead of signing a Gaza peace deal in Egypt. Trump was heckled by left-wing politicians but received a two-minute standing ovation. He stated that the peace deal marked 'the historic dawn of a new Middle East' and praised the US and Israeli negotiating teams. The deal, agreed on Thursday, is seen as a significant achievement for Trump and Israel, with the release of hostages and prisoners expected as part of the agreement. The peace deal comes two years after Hamas stormed Israel, killing 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages, and follows a devastating Israeli military offensive that has killed over 67,000 Palestinians in Gaza.

Nasser al Qudwa, a high-profile Palestinian politician, has expressed reservations about Donald Trump's plan for the future of Gaza, stating that it 'doesn't make sense' to have a Western-led government ruling Gaza. Al Qudwa, who is tipped for a possible role in the governance of Gaza, insists that Hamas should be involved in the territory's future and that a new structure is needed to govern both the West Bank and Gaza. Trump's plan includes a 'board of peace' to oversee the creation of a transitional authority, but al Qudwa is skeptical about the plan's feasibility.

The article discusses the initial success of Donald Trump's peace plan for the Middle East, specifically the ceasefire and hostage release in Gaza. However, it highlights that the harder decisions have been postponed, including what to do with Hamas, creating a transitional authority, and sending in a multinational peacekeeping force. The article emphasizes that without progress on these issues, the vacuum left by the Israeli military could be filled by Hamas, and the plan's ambitious rhetoric may remain unfulfilled.

The release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli prisons as part of a Gaza ceasefire deal has been marred by controversy and emotional distress for the families involved. Many prisoners were unexpectedly deported to Gaza or other countries, causing anguish for their loved ones. The situation highlights the deep-seated issues and mistrust between Israelis and Palestinians, with the prisoners being viewed as either freedom fighters or terrorists depending on the perspective. The release has brought to the surface feelings of acrimony, mistrust, and fear among Palestinians in the West Bank.

The article reports on the release of 20 Israeli hostages held captive by Hamas for two years. The hostages, including soldiers and civilians, were subjected to brutal treatment, including beatings, starvation, and isolation. Some were held in dark tunnels, chained, and forced to sleep on cold ground. The hostages were released as part of a US- and Egypt-brokered cease-fire and prisoner-exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas. Upon release, the hostages were taken to hospitals for medical and psychological care, where they were found to be suffering from extreme malnutrition, respiratory infections, and skin conditions. The article includes personal accounts from the hostages and their families, highlighting the harsh conditions they endured during their captivity.

The article discusses the challenges and opportunities arising from US President Donald Trump's peace plan for Gaza, launched in 2025. While the plan has shown initial success, the real test lies in its implementation and the ability to overcome various obstacles. The article draws parallels with post-WWII reconstruction efforts, highlighting the need for a functional government, economic stability, and security in Gaza. It also warns of potential meddling by outside actors, the need to deter global Intifada networks, and the importance of maintaining a coalition to support the reconstruction effort. A successful outcome in Gaza could have broader implications, including advancing the Abraham Accords and promoting regional stability.

President Trump expressed openness to either a one-state or two-state solution for Gaza, stating that he will decide on the path forward at a later time. Trump emphasized his focus on rebuilding Gaza and implementing his 20-point peace framework, which includes a temporary transitional Palestinian committee overseen by an international Board of Peace headed by himself. The framework aims to create conditions for Palestinian self-determination and statehood after Gaza's redevelopment.

The article discusses the recent ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, brokered by US President Donald Trump, and the challenges that lie ahead in achieving long-term peace and rebuilding in Gaza. While the ceasefire has led to the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, key details of the peace plan remain unsettled, including Hamas disarmament, Israel's withdrawal, and governance of the devastated territory. Experts are cautiously optimistic, acknowledging that the initial steps towards peace are often the most difficult, but the road to stability and rebuilding will be long and challenging.