The long-awaited moment has arrived: the release of hostages in Israel marks a significant milestone in the ongoing conflict. Hundreds gathered in Tel Aviv, adorned with yellow ribbons symbolizing the mobilization for the release. The area, dubbed “Hostages Square,” is filled with posters depicting the faces of loved ones held captive. The release, scheduled for 8 AM local time, comes after 737 days of uncertainty for families.
Historic Hostage Exchange Announcement
This exchange is a critical component of a peace plan proposed by former President Donald Trump. It aims to conclude hostilities between Israel and Hamas. The plan involves the return of 48 hostages—either alive or deceased. In exchange, Israel will release 250 prisoners classified as security risks and 1,700 Palestinians arrested in Gaza since October 2023.
The Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, described the returning hostages’ arrival, expected early in the morning, as a historic event blending sadness with joy. Shosh Bedrosian, his spokesperson, confirmed that the 20 living hostages are to be released simultaneously and handed over to the Red Cross. However, not all deceased hostages might be returned today.
International Cooperation and Negotiations
In the event that deceased hostages are not located, an agreed-upon international body will assist in their identification. Negotiation sources suggest that Hamas has finalized preparations for releasing living hostages. Yet, they continue to demand the release of prominent Palestinian leaders in return.
Israel has made clear that Palestinian detainees will only be freed after the safe return of hostages. Recently transferred detainees are held in two specific prisons, awaiting confirmation of the hostages’ return.
Trump’s Visit and the Peace Summit
Donald Trump is expected to arrive in Israel around 6:20 AM. After discussions with Netanyahu, he plans to address the Knesset and meet the families of the hostages. Before departing the US, Trump stated, “The war is over. Do you understand?” Netanyahu echoed sentiments of significant victories, while also urging that the battle is not yet concluded.
Following his visit to Israel, Trump will travel to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to co-chair a peace summit with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. The summit will include leaders from over 20 countries and UN Secretary-General António Guterres, focusing on the governance of Gaza, which has suffered extensive damage over two years of conflict.
Future Governance of Gaza
One major topic will be the governance of Gaza, with diplomatic sources indicating that mediating countries will need to sign a document ensuring compliance with the ceasefire. The participating nations include the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and possibly Turkey. Notably, no Israeli or Hamas officials are attending the summit. Iran, a long-time supporter of Hamas, was invited but will not participate.
As part of the American plan, which envisions a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces currently controlling 53% of Gaza, Hamas would be excluded from governance. A proposed transition committee, described as technocratic and apolitical, is to oversee this new governance, under the supervision of an international body led by Trump.
