UPDATE: The Gaza Strip ceasefire has entered its second day as tensions ease and hopes rise for the release of hostages. Tens of thousands of Palestinians are returning to their neighborhoods amidst the destruction, while Israelis gather to celebrate the anticipated return of hostages.
On the ground in Tel Aviv, US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, son-in-law of President Donald Trump, addressed a massive crowd, estimated in the hundreds of thousands. “To the hostages themselves, our brothers and sisters, you are coming home,” Witkoff proclaimed, igniting cheers among the audience. Many waved US flags, expressing gratitude while some booed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
As the situation evolves, Israel’s military has announced that 48 hostages still remain in the Gaza Strip, with the government believing around 20 are alive. Celebrations are expected on Monday as the military prepares for their release. The atmosphere remains tense, and one attendee, Yaniv Peretz, expressed mixed emotions: “It’s a really happy time but we know that there are going to be some incredibly difficult moments coming.”
Meanwhile, about 200 US troops have arrived in Israel to oversee the ceasefire agreement with Hamas. They will facilitate humanitarian aid and ensure logistical support, with Admiral Brad Cooper of US Central Command stating, “This great effort will be achieved with no US boots on the ground in Gaza.”
The ceasefire agreement mandates that Hamas must provide information regarding any hostage bodies not released within the first 72 hours. The deal, confirmed by multiple officials including a signatory, also stipulates that Israel will share details on deceased Palestinians held in Israel. The exchange of information will be mediated by the International Committee of the Red Cross to ensure that all hostages and deceased are accounted for without public ceremonies or media coverage.
In a significant diplomatic move, French President Emmanuel Macron is set to travel to Egypt on Monday for discussions on a peace plan brokered by Trump, aiming to establish a permanent ceasefire, secure the release of all hostages, and restore humanitarian access to Gaza.
Additionally, Egypt will host an international summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, co-chaired by Trump and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sissi, with several European and Arab leaders expected to attend. This gathering is seen as a pivotal moment in solidifying peace efforts in the region, with invitations extended to leaders like German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for a signing ceremony concerning the Gaza agreement.
As developments unfold, the international community watches closely, with lives and futures hanging in the balance. Share this urgent news with others to keep them informed.
