By Amanda Castro, Shane Croucher, and Robert Birsel
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Hamas released the final 20 living Israeli hostages on Monday, marking a pivotal moment in the U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas after two years of devastating war in Gaza. Israel also freed more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, while humanitarian aid surged into the territory. President Donald Trump visited the region to promote the deal, which world leaders hope will lay the groundwork for lasting peace—though major questions remain.
What to Know:
- All 20 remaining Israeli hostages were freed; four deceased hostages were returned to Israel.
- Hamas still holds the bodies of 24 deceased hostages; Israel awaits further transfers.
- Israel released over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences.
- Freed Palestinians expressed joy and relief; reports of abuse in Israeli detention persist.
- Trump departed Egypt after meetings with over 30 world leaders on Gaza’s future.
- In Egypt, Trump greeted leaders with trademark flair and referenced past peace deals.
- Pakistani PM Shehbaz Sharif said he nominated Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize.
- Egyptian President el-Sissi called Trump’s plan the “last chance” for regional peace.
- El-Sissi awarded Trump the Order of the Nile, Egypt’s highest civilian honor.
- Trump said rebuilding Gaza will be the “easiest” part of the postwar process.
- Argentine President Milei praised the release of hostages, including three Argentine nationals.
- Netanyahu did not attend the Egypt summit, citing a Jewish holiday.
This live blog is now closed.
Oct 13, 2025 at 03:10 PM EDT
Council on American-Islamic Relations urges media access to Gaza, highlights Palestinian prisoner releases
The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) called on U.S. and international media outlets to demand direct, unsupervised access to Gaza following the ceasefire agreement. In a statement, the Washington-based group emphasized the need to report on the release of 1,700 Palestinians allegedly held without charge by Israeli forces. It urged coverage of those still detained, including Dr. Hussam Abu Safiya.
CAIR warned that focusing solely on freed Israeli hostages risks creating a biased narrative and obscuring Palestinian suffering. The organization also pressed American journalists to confront Israeli restrictions and document the impact of U.S.-funded military actions in Gaza.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:57 PM EDT
UK’s role in Gaza ceasefire sparks tension with U.S. and Israel
As global leaders gathered in Egypt to mark the Gaza ceasefire’s first phase, diplomatic friction emerged between the U.K., U.S., and Israel. British Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said on the BBC that the U.K. played a “key role” in shaping the agreement. Her remarks drew swift backlash from U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee, who dismissed the claim as “delusional” on social media.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar amplified criticism by reposting a message from former British officer Richard Kemp, accusing the U.K. of undermining the deal by recognizing a “nonexistent ‘Palestinian state.’”
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:45 PM EDT
Sanders welcomes hostage releases, urges U.S. reckoning over Gaza war
Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) issued a statement Monday applauding the release of the final 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas and nearly 2,000 Palestinians from Israeli prisons. He called the ceasefire a hopeful step toward lasting peace but stressed the urgent need for humanitarian aid in Gaza, where infrastructure has been decimated.
Sanders urged that Palestinians lead the rebuilding process and reiterated support for a two-state solution. He also criticized U.S. military support for Israel’s campaign in Gaza, calling it a “dark chapter” and demanding accountability for the destruction inflicted with American weapons.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:37 PM EDT
Israel awaits hostage identifications as Trump departs Middle East
The Israeli military confirmed Monday that the bodies of several deceased hostages have been sent to a forensic institute for identification. Hamas still holds the remains of 24 hostages, according to Israeli officials, with no timeline yet for their return.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump concluded his brief Middle East visit, departing Sharm el-Sheikh at 9:07 p.m. local time after promoting the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement during stops in Israel and Egypt.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:32 PM EDT
Emotional scenes in Tel Aviv as hostages return
In Tel Aviv’s “Hostages Square,” an estimated 65,000 people gathered Monday morning to witness the return of Israeli hostages freed after two years in Hamas captivity. The crowd looked skyward as a military helicopter approached from Gaza, briefly diverting from its route to Ichilov Hospital to circle the square in a symbolic salute.
One freed hostage appeared at the door, forming a heart with his hands toward the cheering crowd. A total of eight helicopters passed overhead, some carrying urgent medical cases, all of which were met with applause and emotion on a day many Israelis hope marks a turning point in their history.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:19 PM EDT
WATCH: Pakistan says Trump deserved Nobel Peace Prize
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:07 PM EDT
UK hosts quiet planning summit for Gaza reconstruction
While global attention focused on the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, the UK’s foreign ministry convened a discreet three-day conference in the southern English countryside, gathering Middle Eastern and European officials to begin planning Gaza’s postwar recovery.
The UK government emphasized that reconstruction efforts would be Palestinian-led, with Junior Foreign Minister Hamish Falconer stressing the urgency and scale of the task. “We must be ready to act—to clear rubble, rebuild homes, and restore access to education and healthcare,” he said, noting the process will be complex, lengthy, and require billions in funding.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:55 PM EDT
Trump predicts major investment in Gaza, ends summit with call for unity
President Donald Trump closed his remarks at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit by predicting a wave of financial support for Gaza’s reconstruction. He said “numerous countries of great wealth, power, and dignity” had pledged backing, calling the expected funds significant but modest compared to the resources of those nations. Specific contributors were not named, though Trump promised to reveal details soon.
As he wrapped up, Trump thanked leaders for assembling quickly, saying, “The greatest deals happen that way.” Despite the signing of a key document by four mediating countries, the contents of the document remain undisclosed. Ending his speech, Trump said, “God bless the Middle East,” and asked the media to exit so he could meet privately with attending leaders.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:54 PM EDT
IDF confirms return of two more hostage remains
The Israel Defense Forces announced Monday that two additional coffins containing the remains of deceased Israeli hostages have been handed over to the Red Cross in Gaza. The remains will be transferred to Israeli military and security personnel operating in the territory.
Earlier in the day, the IDF had indicated it was expecting the return. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has urged a pause in the peace process with Hamas until all deceased hostages are accounted for and returned.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:41 PM EDT
Trump asks daughter Ivanka to stand during summit
During the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump acknowledged his daughter’s presence, asking Ivanka Trump to stand.
“I even have my daughter here. Ivanka, please stand up. Wow,” he said.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:38 PM EDT
Trump touts Abraham Accords as path to regional stability
At the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump said several nations have expressed interest in joining the Abraham Accords. Addressing regional leaders, Trump predicted the accords would help secure lasting peace.
“It’s going to guarantee that it all stays together — and you’re going to do well,” he said. Trump added that with the Gaza ceasefire in place and tensions with Iran easing, the region now has “no excuses” to delay progress and prosperity.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:36 PM EDT
Israel receives remains of four deceased hostages from Hamas
The Israel Defense Forces confirmed Monday that four coffins containing the remains of Israeli hostages have been transferred from Gaza. The remains are being brought into Israel for forensic examination to confirm identities.
Earlier in the day, Hamas announced its intention to release the bodies as part of the ongoing ceasefire agreement.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:29 PM EDT
Eurovision vote on Israel postponed amid Gaza ceasefire fallout
The European Broadcasting Union has postponed a vote on Israel’s participation in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, citing recent developments in the Middle East. The decision follows internal divisions among EBU members, with broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia threatening to boycott the event if Israel competes.
Originally scheduled for November, the vote was to be held during an extraordinary general meeting. The EBU now plans to address the issue during its regular Winter General Assembly in December, aiming for a broader, in-person discussion among members.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:28 PM EDT
Trump calls summit Historic, praises Rubio as top diplomat
President Donald Trump described the Sharm el-Sheikh summit and its signed document as a “historic” turning point, declaring it “going to be remembered forever.” He also praised Secretary of State Marco Rubio, predicting that he would be remembered as one of the greatest in U.S. history. “I wouldn’t say it if I didn’t believe it,” Trump said to applause, before joking, “Well, maybe I would.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:24 PM EDT
Trump acknowledges global leaders at Gaza summit
During the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump called out the names of nearly every attending world leader and top diplomat, asking them to stand if he couldn’t spot them in the crowd.
Egyptian officials confirmed that over 30 heads of state and international organizations, including representatives from the United Nations and the Arab League, were present. “These people all came in like 20 minutes’ notice,” Trump said.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:22 PM EDT
Trump thanks Arab leaders, highlights peace efforts at summit
During the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump continued his public acknowledgments of Arab leaders, praising their roles in the Gaza ceasefire agreement. He emphasized the significance of a newly signed but still undisclosed document, calling it a major step toward lasting peace.
Trump invited Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to speak, prompting him to repeat earlier remarks: “Today is one of the greatest days in contemporary history, because peace has been achieved after untiring efforts.” Sharif also announced Pakistan’s nomination of Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:16 PM EDT
WATCH: Trump asks Israeli president to pardon Netanyahu
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:11 PM EDT
Trump thanks El-Sisi and Erdogan after signing Gaza peace document
Following the signing of a key document at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump opened his remarks by thanking Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for awarding him Egypt’s highest national honor.
He also praised the U.S.-made Egyptian fighter jets that escorted Air Force One, joking, “You paid a lot” for them.
Trump extended gratitude to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, calling him a reliable ally: “He’s always there when I need him.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:07 PM EDT
Trump praises el-Sisi, recalls 2016 campaign in Summit remarks
During remarks at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump thanked Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi for hosting the event, calling him a “great leader” and longtime ally.
Trump noted Egypt’s low crime rate and said el-Sisi had supported him “from the beginning during the campaign against Crooked Hillary Clinton.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 01:03 PM EDT
ICYMI: Trump hosts Gaza summit in Egypt as ceasefire takes hold
President Donald Trump arrived in Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday for a high-stakes summit on Gaza’s future, following a celebratory visit to Israel marking the ceasefire deal with Hamas. Joined by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Trump praised his counterpart as a “powerful leader” and credited him with helping secure the agreement.
Sisi met with leaders from France, Turkey, Qatar, and other countries to coordinate reconstruction and the implementation of a ceasefire. The summit drew more than 20 world leaders. However, a last-minute invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was withdrawn after Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan threatened to boycott the event.
Earlier in the day, Hamas released the final 20 living Israeli hostages to the Red Cross, while also handing over the remains of two deceased captives. Israel responded by freeing over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, prompting emotional scenes in Ramallah and Gaza.
Hamas has begun reasserting control in Gaza, deploying armed fighters and police across the territory. Reports of executions and clashes have raised concerns about the group’s compliance with disarmament provisions.
Trump declared the ceasefire “the end of the age of terror and death” and expressed interest in a peace deal with Iran, following joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites over the summer. He also claimed Hezbollah’s threat from Lebanon had been “totally shattered.”
The Gaza health ministry reported staggering losses: over 67,000 Palestinians killed and more than 170,000 injured since October 2023, most of them civilians. The summit now turns toward stabilizing the region and preventing further bloodshed.
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:59 PM EDT
El-Sisi calls Gaza deal a step toward two-state solution
Following the signing of a key document at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi addressed world leaders, reaffirming support for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians.
He described the Gaza agreement as a turning point, saying it would close a “painful chapter in human history.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:57 PM EDT
Trump and global leaders sign Gaza ceasefire document
President Donald Trump and leaders from three other nations signed a document Monday related to the Gaza ceasefire agreement. While the signing marks a symbolic step forward, the contents of the document remain undisclosed, leaving regional observers awaiting clarity on its terms and enforcement mechanisms.
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Oct 13, 2025 at 12:50 PM EDT
Iran skips summit photo-op, citing sanctions and strategic leverage
Iranian leaders were conspicuously absent from the high-profile gathering of world leaders with President Donald Trump at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit. Both Iran’s president and foreign minister declined to attend, stating they would not share a room with nations that have sanctioned or attacked their country.
While the explanation reflects longstanding tensions, analysts note a deeper calculation: a direct meeting with a U.S. president—especially after 47 years without one—would mark a diplomatic milestone.
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:43 PM EDT
Trump announces upcoming peace document amid uncertainty
President Donald Trump announced on Monday that summit leaders will sign a “very comprehensive” document outlining the rules and regulations related to the Gaza ceasefire. “We’re going to be signing a document that’s going to spell out a lot of rules and regulations and lots of other things,” he said.
However, the contents of the agreement remain undisclosed, fueling concern among regional leaders that the symbolic gestures may not translate into lasting peace. As negotiations continue, questions persist over enforcement, reconstruction logistics, and long-term stability in Gaza.
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:37 PM EDT
Emotional reunion for Nova Festival survivors after two-year separation
Avinatan Or and Noa Argamani were reunited on Monday, two years after their abduction during the October 7 attacks at the Nova music festival, The New York Times reported. The Israeli prime minister’s office released photos capturing the moment, marking a powerful symbol of survival and resilience.
Argamani was rescued in a military operation last year and quickly emerged as a global advocate for hostage recovery. She met with President Trump, addressed the U.N. Security Council, and was named one of Time Magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2025. Their reunion comes amid broader efforts to heal and rebuild following the Gaza ceasefire.
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:24 PM EDT
Hamas celebrates prisoner release as ‘national achievement’
Hamas on Monday hailed the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody as a “national achievement” and a “shining milestone” in its decades-long struggle. In a public statement, the group congratulated the freed detainees, their families, and the broader Palestinian community, framing the mass release as a victory for its cause.
“This liberation represents a shining national milestone in our ongoing struggle for freedom and liberation,” the statement read. Hamas, which has governed Gaza since 2007 and is designated a terrorist organization by the U.S. and Israel, has long viewed prisoner exchanges as central to its political narrative and resistance strategy.
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:11 PM EDT
Netanyahu skips Gaza peace summit amid holiday, faces criticism
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will not attend Monday’s peace summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, where President Donald Trump and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi are hosting over 20 world leaders to solidify an end to the Gaza war. Netanyahu’s office cited scheduling conflicts ahead of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, which begin on October 13.
Yair Golan, leader of Israel’s left-wing Democrats, condemned the absence, calling it “driven purely by narrow political interests.” He added, “After two years of Israel’s most difficult war, we cannot afford a leader guided by his personal interest.”
The summit includes leaders from Turkey, Jordan, France, Germany, Italy, Britain, and representatives from the UN and EU. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is also expected to participate as regional powers coordinate postwar stabilization efforts.
Oct 13, 2025 at 12:10 PM EDT
Trump celebrates peace deal with leaders at Sharm El-Sheikh summit
World leaders gathered on stage for a group photo at the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, marking progress in the Gaza ceasefire agreement. “We just made a big deal today, so we’ll smile. Biggest ever,” President Donald Trump said.
Earlier, Trump shared a lengthy handshake and conversation with Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas, signaling continued diplomatic engagement as talks move into the next phase.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:59 AM EDT
Scenes of joy in Ramallah as Palestinian prisoners return
Crowds surged through police barriers in Ramallah on Monday as buses carrying Palestinian prisoners arrived, triggering emotional reunions outside a local theater. Families chanted names of loved ones they hadn’t seen in years—some for decades—as detainees emerged, gaunt and wounded, from Israeli custody.
One prisoner, wrapped in a keffiyeh, flashed a victory sign before falling to his knees to kiss his mother’s feet. In total, 88 detainees were released to the occupied West Bank, while nearly 2,000 others were sent to Gaza, with a few expected to travel onward to neighboring countries.
The mass release followed the return of all living Israeli hostages from Gaza and marked the first significant step in a ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the two-year conflict. While many of the freed men had been serving life sentences for violent offenses, the focus on Monday was squarely on reunion, not politics.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:47 AM EDT
IDF general calls hostage return a ‘defining moment’ amid dispute over Hamas compliance
Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin of the Israel Defense Forces hailed the return of hostages from Gaza as a “defining moment,” honoring both the survivors and fallen soldiers. “This belongs to the people of Israel, and all who believe in humanity,” he said in a statement Monday.
Defrin emphasized that the mission remains unfinished, urging Hamas to fulfill its obligations under the ceasefire deal brokered by the Trump administration. “We are prepared for the return of all the fallen hostages,” he added.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum criticized Hamas earlier in the day for releasing only four of the 28 confirmed deceased hostages, calling it a breach of the agreement. Tensions over compliance persist as negotiations enter their next phase.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:34 AM EDT
Trump and Rubio trade praise over Gaza peace deal
Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the Gaza ceasefire “one of the most important days for world peace in 50 years,” emphasizing its global significance. President Trump, not missing a beat, replied, “Only 50?” prompting Rubio to revise his statement: “Maybe 100.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:32 AM EDT
Hamas transfers remains of hostages to Red Cross in Gaza
Hamas has delivered the remains of two deceased hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza, according to an official involved in the operation. The handover took place on Monday as part of ongoing efforts tied to the ceasefire agreement with Israel.
Earlier, Hamas’s armed wing had announced plans to return the bodies of four hostages, though only two were transferred during this latest exchange. The identities of the deceased have not been publicly confirmed, and it remains unclear when or if the remaining bodies will be released.
The Red Cross has played a central role in facilitating hostage transfers and humanitarian coordination in Gaza, where ceasefire implementation and recovery efforts continue amid fragile security conditions.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:29 AM EDT
Trump hails Gaza ceasefire as historic breakthrough
At the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, President Donald Trump praised the initial Gaza ceasefire deal in sweeping terms, calling it unprecedented.
“I’ve never seen anything like it: the level of love, the level of respect,” he said. “It’s peace in the Middle East. Everyone said it’s not possible to do. And it’s going to happen.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:28 AM EDT
El-Sisi praises Trump as Gaza ceasefire talks advance
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi offered effusive praise for President Donald Trump during a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, declaring, “Only you were capable of making this achievement and ending the war.” The remarks came as regional and international leaders gathered to finalize the Gaza ceasefire framework and begin planning for reconstruction.
Trump, seated beside el-Sisi, thanked the Egyptian leader for his role in the negotiations and noted Egypt’s internal stability, saying it has “very little crime.” El-Sisi had earlier welcomed Trump with a statement invoking global unity: “Enough war. Welcome to peace.”
When asked by reporters about the timeline for the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, Trump asserted it had already begun, despite unresolved issues surrounding aid delivery, military withdrawals, and hostage arrangements. The summit continues as leaders work to solidify next steps in Gaza’s recovery.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:24 AM EDT
Regional leaders meet in Egypt to advance Gaza ceasefire and reconstruction
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi convened a high-level meeting on Monday with the presidents of France and Turkey, Qatar’s emir, and other regional leaders to coordinate the next phase of the Gaza ceasefire and launch reconstruction efforts. The talks took place on the sidelines of an international summit in Sharm el-Sheikh focused on finalizing a framework to end the war in Gaza.
According to a statement from Egypt’s presidency, the gathering aimed to align diplomatic and logistical strategies for stabilizing the territory and supporting humanitarian recovery.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:19 AM EDT
Hamas reasserts control in Gaza amid ceasefire fragility
Hamas has begun deploying armed fighters and police across Gaza in a bid to reestablish authority following last week’s ceasefire agreement with Israel. The move comes as thousands of displaced residents return to devastated neighborhoods, raising tensions over the militant group’s role in post-conflict governance.
On Monday, dozens of Hamas operatives were seen at a hospital in southern Gaza during the release of Israeli hostages. Meanwhile, reports emerged of shootings and executions targeting alleged collaborators, with Hamas-linked Telegram channels claiming action against “traitors” tied to Israel-backed militias. Over the weekend, Hamas fighters also clashed violently with a prominent family in Gaza City.
While the ceasefire remains intact, the resurgence of Hamas forces has sparked concern over the group’s disarmament—a vague but critical element of the peace deal. Regional troops slated for deployment face mounting challenges in stabilizing the territory.
President Donald Trump, speaking aboard Air Force One, acknowledged Hamas’s actions but suggested they were within the bounds of the agreement. “They do want to stop the problems and they’ve been open about it,” Trump said. “We gave them approval for a period of time … We want it to be safe. I think it’s going to be fine. Who knows for sure.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:11 AM EDT
Trump praises Egypt’s el-Sissi, highlights security cooperation
President Donald Trump met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi this week, calling him a “friend of mine” and affirming that the United States is “with him all the way.”
Trump also praised Egypt’s internal security, stating the country has “very little crime” because “they don’t play games.” His comments drew attention to Egypt’s strict law enforcement policies under el-Sissi, who rose to power following the 2013 military ouster of Mohamed Morsi, Egypt’s first democratically elected president.
Oct 13, 2025 at 11:07 AM EDT
Trump credits Iran strikes for breakthrough Gaza peace deal
President Donald Trump on Monday linked the success of the recent Gaza peace agreement to U.S. military strikes on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure earlier this year. He said: "If we didn’t hit them on the nuclear, I don’t think we would've been able to have this incredible deal."
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:59 AM EDT
Watch: Trump arrives at Gaza peace summit
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:55 AM EDT
JD Vance hails “historic achievement”
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:49 AM EDT
Trump’s arrival in Sharm el-Sheikh
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Oct 13, 2025 at 10:35 AM EDT
After hostages released, Hamas members have option of amnesty under Trump plan
Following the exchange of prisoners and hostages—which is nearly complete, excepting the return of 28 hostage bodies to Israel—point six of Trump's peace plan kicks in.
"Once all hostages are returned, Hamas members who commit to peaceful co-existence and to decommission their weapons will be given amnesty. Members of Hamas who wish to leave Gaza will be provided safe passage to receiving countries," the Trump plan says.
Point 13, which is related, states: "Hamas and other factions agree to not have any role in the governance of Gaza, directly, indirectly, or in any form. All military, terror, and offensive infrastructure, including tunnels and weapon production facilities, will be destroyed and not rebuilt. There will be a process of demilitarisation of Gaza under the supervision of independent monitors, which will include placing weapons permanently beyond use through an agreed process of decommissioning, and supported by an internationally funded buy back and reintegration program all verified by the independent monitors. New Gaza will be fully committed to building a prosperous economy and to peaceful coexistence with their neighbors."
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:25 AM EDT
Trump arrives in Egypt, Ivanka shares video of military escort
Air Force One has landed in Egypt.
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:19 AM EDT
Trump greeted with “peacemaker” newspaper front page in Israel
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:15 AM EDT
Israel accuses Hamas over hostage bodies
Israeli defense minister Israel Katz accused Hamas of failing to uphold its commitments under the agreement, after the militant group's armed wing said only four of the 28 hostage bodies still in Gaza would be returned on Monday.
“The urgent mission that we are all obligated to right now is to ensure the return of all the abducted and fallen back home," Katz said in a post on X, originally in Hebrew.
"Hamas’s announcement today about the expected return of four bodies constitutes a failure to uphold its commitments.
"Any delay or deliberate avoidance will be considered a blatant violation of the agreement and will be met accordingly.”
Hamas has previously said it had struggled to locate the hostage bodies. It released the last 20 surviving Israeli hostages on Monday.
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:06 AM EDT
Videos show buses returning with Palestinian prisoners
Oct 13, 2025 at 10:03 AM EDT
UK’s Starmer touts help to remove Hamas weapons
Britain’s Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the U.K. could help in decommissioning Hamas' weapons, citing his experience with paramilitary groups in Northern Ireland. Starmer, who is at the summit in Egypt, said Britain was ready to “play its full part” in ensuring that the current Israel-Hamas ceasefire results in a lasting peace.
“We stand ready in relation to monitoring the ceasefire and decommissioning Hamas capability and weaponry, and that’s drawing on our experience in Northern Ireland and the IRA, which we dealt with in particular in relation to decommissioning,” Starmer said in a joint appearance with the emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Oct 13, 2025 at 09:55 AM EDT
Trump leaves Israel for summit in Egypt
President Donald Trump has boarded Air Force One at Israel's Ben Gurion Airport to head next door to Sharm el-Sheik in Egypt for a summit of global leaders on his Gaza peace deal, a major and historic moment for the Middle East.
The exchange of the last 20 living Israeli hostages and 1,900 Palestinian prisoners is complete, though the bodies of 28 more Israeli hostages remain in Gaza for the moment.
Now, the agreement moves into its more fraught stages—the Israeli withdrawal and the disarmament of Hamas.
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Oct 13, 2025 at 09:49 AM EDT
Watch: Trump speech at Israel’s Knesset
Oct 13, 2025 at 09:45 AM EDT
Israel releases 1,900 Palestinian prisoners
Israel says it has released more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal, Associated Press reported.
Oct 13, 2025 at 09:42 AM EDT
Iran absent from Egypt summit with Trump
Trump spoke several times about Iran in his Knesset speech, hailing the U.S. action against its nuclear sites and denouncing it as a state sponsor of terror in the region—but also urging Tehran to now work towards peace for the good of its people.
Iran, which has sought to portray itself as a key player in the Palestinian cause as Israel's primary antagonist, will be absent from the summit in Egypt, where Trump is now headed, despite receiving an invitation.
"Iran is grateful for President El-Sisi's invitation to attend the Sharm El-Sheikh Summit," Iranian foreign minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi said in a Sunday post on X, as Trump flew into the region.
"While favoring diplomatic engagement, neither President Pezeshkian nor I can engage with counterparts who have attacked the Iranian People and continue to threaten and sanction us. Having said that, Iran welcomes any initiative that ends Israel's Genocide in Gaza and ensures the expulsion of occupation forces.
"Palestinians are fully entitled to secure their fundamental right of self-determination, and all States remain obliged, more than ever, to assist them in their lawful & legitimate cause. Iran has always been, and will always remain, a vital force for peace in the region.
"Contrary to the genocidal Israeli regime, Iran is not after Forever Wars—particularly on the dime of its purported allies— but seeks Forever Peace, Prosperity, and Cooperation."
Oct 13, 2025 at 09:32 AM EDT
Hamas’ armed wing says four hostage bodies will be released Monday
Of the 28 hostage bodies that remain in the possession of Hamas, just four will be released on Monday, Hamas' armed wing said in a new statement.
It had been hoped in Israel that the bodies would be released sooner, and the delay is likely to cause much anguish and anger, but Hamas has said it has been challenging to locate all of the bodies.
Oct 13, 2025 at 09:22 AM EDT
Images show release of Palestinian prisoners by Israel
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Oct 13, 2025 at 09:09 AM EDT
Released Palestinian prisoners arrive in Egypt, Gaza
Egypt has received 154 Palestinian prisoners deported from Israel as part of the hostage-prisoner exchange with Hamas, AP reported.
Meanwhile, other Palestinians freed by Israel were received in Gaza and the West Bank.
Israel is releasing 1,900 prisoners under the deal.
Oct 13, 2025 at 09:01 AM EDT
Who is Miriam Adelson?
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In his speech to Israel's Knesset, U.S. President Donald Trump called out Miriam Adelson from the crowd in the chamber—along with her late husband Sheldon Adelson—for helping to convince him to move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and "getting me thinking about Golan Heights".
Trump both moved the embassy and recognized Israeli sovereignty over the Golan Heights, which Syria also claims, in his first term.
The Adelsons are billionaire Republican and Trump donors who strongly advocated for Israel. Sheldon Adelson, who died in 2021 aged 87 and was laid to rest in Jerusalem, was an American casino magnate.
Israel-born Miriam Adelson is a physician specializing in the treatment of addiction. She is worth $34.8 billion, according to Forbes, after inheriting a large portion of her late husband's fortune.
"Miriam and Sheldon would come into the office," Trump said in his Knesset speech. "They'd call me…I think I think they had more trips to the White House than anybody else I could think of."
Trump continued: "They would come in and her husband was a very aggressive man. But I loved him…And he'd call up, 'can I come over and see you?' I say, Sheldon, I'm the president of the United States. It doesn't work that way…But they were very responsible for so much, including getting me thinking about Golan Heights, which is probably one of the greatest things that ever happened."
He added: "I've got to get her in trouble with this. But I actually asked it once. I said so, Miriam, I know you love Israel. What do you love more? The United States or Israel? She refused to answer."
Oct 13, 2025 at 08:17 AM EDT
Trump closes Knesset speech: “I’m with you all the way”
"We are going to have hope, harmony, opportunity and happiness here in the spiritual and geographic center of the entire world," Trump said in his speech's closing remarks to the Knesset.
"That's what you are Israel, America and all of the nations of the Middle East will soon be safer, stronger, greater, and more prosperous than ever before. And I want to thank you all once again for this exceptional honor.
"This has been truly an honor. It's seldom that a president is invited to do this.
"And, I love Israel. I'm with you all the way. You will be bigger, better, stronger, and more loving than ever before. Thank you very much. God bless you. God bless the United States of America, and God bless the Middle East."
Oct 13, 2025 at 08:09 AM EDT
Trump urges Israel’s President Herzog to pardon Netanyahu
Trump, deviating from his scripted speech, offered support for Netanyahu by putting Israeli President Herzog on the spot: "Hey, I have an idea, Mr. President. Why don't you give him a pardon? Give him his time."
Netanyahu, whose supporters in the Knesset stood and cheered, is embroiled in legal issues related to a corruption case.
Oct 13, 2025 at 08:05 AM EDT
Donald Trump implores Iran to make the “best decision”
"Neither the United States nor Israel bear the people of Iran any hostility," Trump said.
"We merely want to live in peace. We don't want any looming threats over our heads, and we don't want to even think in terms of nuclear destruction. It's not going to happen. Never will happen."
He said there is "nothing that would do more good for this part of the world than for Iran's leaders to renounce terrorism, threatening their neighbors, quit funding their militant proxies, and finally recognize Israel's right to exist and say, I have to do that."
Trump spoke to Iran directly: "To Iran—and as you know, this is not said out of weakness, it's not weakness, but I'm going to say this—we are ready when you are and it will be the best decision that Iran has ever [made]."
He added: "I know a lot of Iranians in the United States, a good people, smart, hardworking people. They don't want to see what's happened to their country."
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:59 AM EDT
Trump spells out “clear” choice for Palestinians of Gaza
"The choice for Palestinians could not be more clear. This is their chance to turn forever from the path of terror and violence," Trump told Israel's Knesset, adding that the work is underway to "exile the wicked forces of hate that are in their midst."
"I think that's going to happen," Trump said.
Trump continued: "After tremendous pain and death and hardship, now is the time to concentrate on building their people up instead of trying to tear Israel down. We don't want that to happen again.
"And the total focus of Gazans must be on restoring the fundamentals of stability, safety, dignity and economic development so they can finally have the better life that their children really do deserve."
He added that "after all these decades of horror, I intend to be a partner in this effort".
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:50 AM EDT
Trump says Iran wants to “survive,” calls on Israel to “enjoy the fruits of your labor”
"Didn't they take a big hit? Boy, oh, boy, you got it from one side or the other," Trump said of Iran, referring to the 12-day war with Israel, in which the U.S. joined in strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities.
But Trump said "it'd be great if we could make a peace deal" with Iran.
"Wouldn't it be nice? I think because I think they want to," Trump said. "I think they're tired."
"Somebody said, sir, they're starting their nuclear program again," Trump continued. "I said, let me tell you something, they're not starting anything, they want to survive, the last thing they want to do is start digging holes again."
Trump said Israel's "long and difficult war has now ended."
"You know, some people say 3000 years, some people say 500 years. Whatever it is, it's the granddaddy of them all," Trump said.
"And in an unprecedented achievement, virtually the entire region has endorsed the plan that Gaza will be immediately demilitarized and Hamas will be disarmed, and Israel's security will no longer be threatened in any way, shape or form."
"So Israel, with our help, has won all that they can by force of arms," Trump said, looking beyond the war.
"You've won. I mean, you've won. Now it's time to translate these victories against terrorists on the battlefield into the ultimate prize of peace and prosperity for the entire Middle East. It's about time you were able to enjoy the fruits of your labor."
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:34 AM EDT
Trump talks war, weapons, and peace through strength
Trump said that now, including Israel-Hamas, he has "settled eight wars in eight months," and celebrated that "the hostages are back" which "feels so good to say".
"But when you settle eight wars in eight months, that means you don't like war. Everyone thought I was going to be brutal," Trump said.
"In fact, I remember Hillary Clinton, during a debate, she said … he's got a personality that's all about war. No. My personality actually is all about stopping wars. And it seems to work."
Trump added that "we're not going to go into war, but if we do, we're going to win that war like nobody has ever won a war before—we will not be politically correct."
"The United States has the greatest and most powerful military in the right now history of the world," Trump said.
"I can tell you, we have weapons that nobody has ever dreamt of. I only hope we never have to use them. I rebuilt the military. I was proud to do it, but some of the things I hated to do, I hated [some] of the weapons.
"Because the level of power is so enormous. It's so dangerous, so bad. But we have to do what we have to do. We make the best weapons in the world, and we've got a lot of them, and we've given a lot to Israel, frankly."
He said Netanyahu "would call me so many times. Can you get me this weapon? That weapon, that weapon. Some of them I never heard of, Bibi. And I made them. But we'd get them here. […] They are the best … But you used them well. It also takes people that know how to use them. And you obviously use them very well."
Trump added that "Israel became strong and powerful, which ultimately led to peace."
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:18 AM EDT
Trump speech abruptly stops amid commoton
Trump was heaping praise on his special envoy Steve Wtikoff when the Knesset erupted with commotion, and Speaker Ohana banged his gavel. One or two individuals were escorted from the chamber amid shouting, and Trump brushed off the pause as he restarted his speech.
"That was very efficient. So, back to Steve," Trump said.
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:14 AM EDT
Trump: Netanyahu is great—but he’s not easy
President Trump on Netanyahu: "He is not easy. I want to tell you that he's not the easiest guy to deal with, but that's what makes him great."
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:13 AM EDT
Trump: Historic dawn of a new Middle East
"This is not only the end of a war. This is the end of an age of terror and death and the beginning of the age of faith and hope and of God. It's the start of a grand concord and lasting harmony for Israel and all the nations of what will soon be a truly magnificent region. I believe that so strongly. This is the historic dawn of a new Middle East."
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:12 AM EDT
Trump is speaking in the Knesset now
"Nice place. Very nice," Trump said, to laughs.
"We gather in a day of profound joy, of soaring hope, a renewed faith, and above all, a day to give our deepest thanks to the Almighty God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."
"After two harrowing years in darkness and captivity, 20 courageous hostages are returning to the glorious embrace of their families. And it is glorious," Trump said.
"Twenty-eight more precious loved ones are coming home at last to rest in this sacred soil for all of time. And after so many years of unceasing war and endless danger, today the skies are calm, the guns are silent, the sirens are still. And the sun rises on a holy land that is finally at peace. A land and a region that will live, God willing, in peace for all eternity."
Oct 13, 2025 at 07:08 AM EDT
Yair Lapid: There was no genocide in Gaza
Yair Lapid, the opposition leader in Israel, is speaking now. And he has defended Israel against accusations that it has conducted a genocide in Gaza.
"The truth is, there was no genocide, no intentional starvation," Lapid said, dismissing such allegations as terror-funded propaganda.
Lapid said the Israeli soldiers were "fighting in the most complicated conditions imaginable against terrorists who send their own children to die".
"The truth is that the democratic state was attacked by a fanatical terrorist organization," Lapid said.
"There is good and evil in this world. When you stand with Hamas, you stand with evil. When you stand with Hezbollah, you stand with evil. When you stand with the Iranian regime, you stand with evil," Lapid said.
"When you stand with Israel, you stand on the side of justice."
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:57 AM EDT
Netanyahu ends with nominating Trump for “Israel Prize”
"Mr. President, thank you for all you have done for us. I have submitted your nomination to be the first non-Israeli recipient of the Israel Prize, Israel's highest award," Netanyahu said.
"As to that other prize, just a question of time. You'll get it. But I want you to get the Israel Prize. Our highest award to our greatest friends. When others were weak, you were strong. When others were fearful, you were bold. When others abandoned us, you stood by our side on behalf of the government and people of Israel.
"I thank you for your extraordinary friendship. Thank you for helping bring our hostages home. Thank you for supporting Israel's march to victory. Thank you for paving a path to peace."
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:48 AM EDT
Netanyahu: We are fulfilling promise of bringing hostages home
"My wife, Sara and I have met with the hostage families many times. There were no words to describe their agony, only tears of bottomless sorrow and unimaginable pain," Netanyahu said.
"At the beginning of the war, I promised to bring all the hostages home. Today, with the indispensable help, the determined and focused help, the unremitting help of President Trump, his team, and with the incredible sacrifice and courage of the soldiers of Israel, we are fulfilling that promise."
Not all of the hostages taken on October 7 survived the course of the war.
The last 20 surviving hostages were freed today, but the bodies of many others are still in Gaza, expected to be handed over in the coming hours.
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:42 AM EDT
Netanyahu: Israel is here to stay
"We have paid a high price for this war. But our enemies now understand just how powerful and just how determined Israel is. They understand that attacking Israel on October 7th was a catastrophic mistake. They understand that Israel is strong and that Israel is here to stay. And this, Mr. President, is the indispensable foundation of peace. Peace through strength."
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:31 AM EDT
Netanyahu speaks, thanking Trump for actions in support of Israel
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is now speaking to the Knesset, in English, thanking U.S. President Donald Trump for the many actions he has taken in support of Israel in recent years, including recognition of Jerusalem as the capital, joining the military action against Iranian nuclear sites, and the Abraham Accords in his first term.
Netanyahu calls Trump the "greatest friend the state of Israel has ever had in the White House."
“Mr. President, you are committed to this peace,” Netanyahu said. “I am committed to this peace, and together, mister president, we will achieve this peace.”
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:25 AM EDT
Ohana says Trump will receive Nobel Peace Prize nomination from Israel next year
Knesset speaker Ohana said Trump deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts and will receive a nomination from Israel for next year's prize. The prize is coveted by Trump, who styles himself as a global peacemaker and says his interventions have ended or averted several wars.
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:21 AM EDT
Netanyahu not heading to Egypt for peace summit
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said he will not travel to Egypt for a summit on the Israel-Hamas war pulled together by U.S. President Donald Trump due to a Jewish holiday.
The statement came after Egypt’s presidency said Netanyahu would attend the summit.
The Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah ends the weeklong Sukkot holiday. It was on this holiday, two years ago, that Hamas launched the October 7, 2023, attack that began the Israel-Hamas war. Jewish holidays run on a lunar calendar.
"The Prime Minister thanked President Trump for the invitation but said he will be unable to attend due to time constraints ahead of the start of the holiday," Netanyahu's office said in a statement posted to X.
"Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked President Trump for his efforts to expand the circle of peace – peace through strength."
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:18 AM EDT
Amir Ohana compares Trump to Cyrus the Great
Knesset speaker Amir Ohana lavished praise on Trump for the peace deal, calling the American leader "a giant of Jewish history" comparable to Cyrus the Great.
Trump is a "colossus who will be enshrined in the Pantheon of history" and remembered for thousands of years by Jewish people, Ohana said.
He added that "the world needs more Trumps".
Oct 13, 2025 at 06:04 AM EDT
Knesset applauds Israeli and US leaders
Lots of rapturous applause, cheers, and standing ovations as Israeli Knesset speaker Amir Ohana calls out a number of Israeli and American political figures for their roles leading up to today, including PM Netanyahu, Israeli negotiator Ron Dermer, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, among many others.
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:56 AM EDT
President Donald Trump enters Knesset chamber to long applause, cheers
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:54 AM EDT
Buses of freed Palestinian prisoners arrives in West Bank
There were huge cheers as crowds gathered to welcome the dozens of Palestinian prisoners arriving on buses in Ramallah, West Bank, freed by Israel under the ceasefire agreement with Hamas.
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:52 AM EDT
Ivanka Trump enters Knesset chamber to applause
The president's eldest daughter Ivanka Trump, whose husband Jared Kushner has played a key role in the Israel-Hamas negotiations, entered the Israeli Knesset to applause.
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Oct 13, 2025 at 05:43 AM EDT
The moment Israeli hostage Omri Miran reunites with his wife after two years
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Oct 13, 2025 at 05:31 AM EDT
Palestinian prisoner release underway now Israeli hostages are freed
Two Red Cross buses carrying Palestinian prisoners being released as part of the exchange have begun leaving Ofer Prison, The Associated Press reported.
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:25 AM EDT
IDF releases photos, videos of hostages handover
IDF handout
IDF handout
IDF handout
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:11 AM EDT
Netanyahu to attend Egypt summit with Trump: Reports
The Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will attend the summit in Egypt's Sharm el-Sheik on Monday with U.S. President Donald Trump and other world leaders for the ceremony to mark the Gaza peace deal, according to multiple reports in the Israeli media.
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:07 AM EDT
Israeli hostages released: Full list of names
The 20 surviving Israeli hostages released from the Gaza Strip by Hamas are:
Eitan Mor, Alon Ohel, Ziv Berman, Gali Berman, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Omri Miran, Matan Angrest, Elkana Bohbot, Rom Braslavski, Nimrod Cohen, Ariel Cunio, David Cunio, Evyatar David, Maxim Herkin, Eitan Horn, Segev Kalfon, Bar Kupershtein, Yosef Haim Ohana, Avinatan Or, and Matan Zangauker.
Oct 13, 2025 at 05:02 AM EDT
Israel welcomes home list of 20 living hostages
The Israeli government has begun publicly welcoming home the 20 living hostages freed.
Oct 13, 2025 at 04:52 AM EDT
Hamas’ armed wing Al-Qassam: ‘We declare our commitment to the agreement’
With the handover of living hostages complete, the Al-Qassam Brigades—the armed wing of Hamas—said it is committed to the ceasefire agreement.
"The agreement that was reached is the fruit of our people’s steadfastness and the firmness of its fighters, and we announce our commitment to the agreement that was reached and to the timetables linked to it, provided the occupation complies with them," said the Al-Qassam Brigades statement shared on Telegram, originally in Arabic.
It continued that they have "always been intent on stopping this war of extermination, and has pursued that goal since the first months, but the enemy thwarted all efforts for its narrow calculations and to satisfy the instinct for brutality and revenge".
"The enemy failed to recover its prisoners by means of military pressure, despite its intelligence superiority and the overwhelming force it possesses; and now it is compelled to retrieve its prisoners through an exchange deal — just as the resistance promised from the start," the statement said.
Israel "could have recovered most of its prisoners alive many months ago, but it continued to stall and be stubborn, and preferred that its army kill dozens of them as a result of the failed policy of military pressure," it added.
Oct 13, 2025 at 04:41 AM EDT
Knesset gives nod to iconic red MAGA hats: “Trump the peace president”
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Oct 13, 2025 at 04:37 AM EDT
Aid trucks entered Gaza Strip after ceasefire: Hamas
Hamas officials said 173 humanitarian aid trucks entered the Gaza Strip on Sunday after the ceasefire took effect, including three loaded with gas for cooking, and six with diesel fuel for bakeries, generators, and hospitals.
The Hamas-run Government Media Office said in a statement, originally in Arabic, that the quantities of aid "are still very limited" and a "drop in the ocean of needs," adding that the Gaza Strip "needs a continuous and regular flow of aid, fuel, cooking gas, relief and medical materials on an urgent and regular basis."
Oct 13, 2025 at 04:25 AM EDT
Hamas releases last living hostages
The last 13 living hostages have now been released to the Red Cross by Hamas.
The IDF, citing the Red Cross, said the hostages "have been transferred into their custody and are on their way to IDF and ISA forces in the Gaza Strip."
The Israeli military later said that the returning hostages "are currently being accompanied by IDF and ISA forces on their return to Israel, where they will undergo an initial medical assessment."
"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 IDF said.
Oct 13, 2025 at 04:17 AM EDT
Trump: “This is a great day”
"This is a great day," Trump tells Israeli reporters at the Knesset in brief remarks ahead of his address.
But one question goes unanswered, at least for now: Can Israel renew the war if Hamas reneges on the agreement?
Oct 13, 2025 at 04:14 AM EDT
Trump to receive Israel’s top honor
U.S. President Donald Trump is set to receive the Israeli Presidential Medal of Honor, the nation’s most prestigious civilian award.
It is in recognition of his role in brokering a Gaza ceasefire and securing the release of hostages.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog announced on Monday that Trump would receive the honor.
Newsweek's Brendan Cole has the story.
Oct 13, 2025 at 04:12 AM EDT
Trump arrives at the Knesset
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Trump signed the guest book: "This is my great honor. A great and beautiful day. A new beginning."
Oct 13, 2025 at 03:52 AM EDT
What Trump said en route to Israel
Some of Trump's remarks to reporters while aboard Air Force One:
"The one thing I can tell you is everybody is happy. Whether it's Jewish or Muslim or the Arab countries, every country is dancing in the streets. And it's a point in time, I don't think you'd ever see it again. They've never seen it for 3,000 years […] And this is the first time they've ever seen where everybody is unified because, as you know, we're going to Egypt after Israel. And we're going to meet all of the leaders of the very powerful and big countries and very rich countries uh and others. And they're all into this deal. Everybody's into it. It's never happened before."
"The war is over."
"I think [the ceasefire] is going to hold […] A lot of reasons why it's going to hold, but I think people are tired of it. It's been it's been centuries."
"I don't know about the Riviera for a while, because you take a look at what you have. You have to get people taken care of first. But, it's going to start really essentially immediately. I mean, they're going to have to start by removing a lot of the structures that you see that are down to the ground. I mean it's a very—it's blasted. This is like a demolition site. Almost the entire site is. So you have to get rid of what you have there. You have structures that are very dangerous. They're falling down. If they haven't fallen, they're going to fall down of their own volition […] Over the years, it'll look very good. It's got the first chance it's had in centuries of being peaceful. It's always been a very, very strange area. It's always been loaded up with problems, religious problems, problems like no other place probably in the world. And I think it's going to normalize. All you can say, if it normalizes, that would be fantastic."
"Everybody wants to be a part of [the Board of Peace]. I've had calls from all of the leaders, the leaders of countries, they all want to be a part. I mean, the leaders themselves, they're not going to send somebody. They want to be a part of it. […] First, I want to find out that Tony [Blair] would be popular with all. Because I just don't know that. And I like Tony. I've always liked Tony, but I want to find out that he's an acceptable choice to everybody."
Oct 13, 2025 at 03:29 AM EDT
Trump’s busy schedule in Israel, Egypt
Here's President Trump's tightly packed schedule for his single-day trip to Israel and Egypt:
Monday, October 13, 2025
2:20 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT arrives Tel Aviv, Israel
Tel Aviv, Israel
3:45 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT meets with Hostage Families
The Knesset
4:00 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT delivers Remarks to The Knesset
The Knesset
6:00 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT departs Tel Aviv, Israel, en route Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Tel Aviv, Israel
6:45 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT arrives Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
7:30 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT participates in a Middle East Peace Ceremony
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
10:00 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT departs Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, en route The White House
Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt
12:05 AM ET — THE PRESIDENT arrives The White House
The White House
Oct 13, 2025 at 03:22 AM EDT
Trump departs Tel Aviv for Jerusalem to meet hostage families, address Knesset
Oct 13, 2025 at 03:20 AM EDT
Family speaks with hostage in video call
Israeli hostage families group We Are All Hostages shared an image of a video call between newly freed hostage Nimrod Cohen and his family, as they prepare to receive him after more than two years in captivity in the Gaza Strip.
An initial group of seven hostages was released early on Monday and the Red Cross is on its way to collect another group who have just been freed by Hamas.
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Oct 13, 2025 at 03:12 AM EDT
Watch: Trump, Netanyahu share words in The Beast at Ben Gurion Airport
Oct 13, 2025 at 03:06 AM EDT
More Israeli hostages on their way
The IDF said in a fresh statement shared on Telegram: "According to information received, the Red Cross is on its way to an additional meeting point in the southern Gaza Strip, where several hostages will be handed over to the Red Cross."
The IDF is carrying out medical and psychological checks of the first seven hostages. No one has as yet needed an emergency evacuation, The Jerusalem Post reported.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:52 AM EDT
Trump has landed in Israel
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Air Force One has landed at Tel Aviv, Israel, after flying over Hostages Square.
With hostages beginning to return to Israel under phase one of the deal, Trump is expected to receive a hero's welcome in Israel.
Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu greeted Trump on the tarmac as he arrived.
In Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, a crowd of thousands cheered for Trump.
Oct 13, 2025 at 02:50 AM EDT
First seven hostages have returned to Israel
The Israeli military said the seven hostages released so far by Hamas under the first phase of the ceasefire agreement have now entered Israel.
"The returning hostages, Eitan Mor, Alon Ohel, Ziv Berman, Gali Berman, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Omri Miran and Matan Angrest, accompanied by IDF and ISA forces, crossed the border into the State of Israel a short while ago," the IDF said in a statement posted to its Telegram account.
"They are currently on their way to the initial reception point in southern Israel, where they will reunite with their families. The IDF is prepared to receive additional hostages who are expected to be transferred to the Red Cross later on."
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