U.S. President Donald Trump on Sunday announced that the war in Gaza has officially ended, expressing confidence that the Middle East is on the path toward peace and stability.
“The war is over, you understand that,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One as he departed Washington for Israel. Asked about the future of the region, he added, “I think it’s going to normalize.”
Trump’s visit to Israel comes as a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas held for a third consecutive day. The truce, brokered with the help of the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, is part of a deal that includes the release of hostages and prisoners on both sides.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, in a televised statement, said, “Tomorrow is the beginning of a new path. A path of building, a path of healing, and I hope – a path of uniting hearts.”
On the ground, Palestinians have begun returning north to Gaza City, where months of conflict left entire neighborhoods in ruins. “There is a lot of joy among the people,” said Gaza resident Abdou Abu Seada, though he admitted the happiness was mixed with exhaustion after two years of war.
According to Israeli government spokesperson Shosh Bedrosian, the first group of 20 living hostages was expected to be released early Monday, followed by the handover of the bodies of 28 others. Israel also plans to free 250 Palestinian prisoners, including minors, once the hostages reach safety.
Trump is scheduled to address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, before traveling to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, for a summit of world leaders focused on the region’s next steps toward long-term peace. Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is expected to attend.
As Gazans return to the north, many have described scenes of severe devastation. “We are joyful to return to Gaza (City) but at the same time we have bitter feelings about the destruction,” said Rami Mohammad-Ali, who traveled 15 kilometers with his son to reach their home.
Rescue teams continue to warn residents of unexploded ordnance in the area, while humanitarian organizations estimate that up to 300,000 tents may be needed to shelter the displaced population.
