U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed the end of the two-year Gaza war on October 13, 2025, hailing a “historic dawn” after Hamas released the final 20 living Israeli hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees from Israeli custody. Speaking to Israel’s Knesset in Jerusalem, Trump said, “The skies are calm, the guns are silent… a Holy Land that is finally at peace,” crediting his 20-point peace plan brokered with Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. The hostages, seized in the October 7, 2023 attacks that killed 1,200 Israelis, arrived via Red Cross convoy, sparking jubilation at Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square.
In Gaza, freed Palestinians—including 250 serving life sentences—reunited with families amid scenes of relief, though over 67,000 have died in the conflict. Trump hosted a Sharm el-Sheikh summit with 20+ leaders, signing pledges for aid and reconstruction, but warned Hamas must disarm or face intervention. Hamas also handed over four deceased hostages’ bodies, with 24 more pending. Phase two focuses on Israeli withdrawal and Gaza governance, amid accusations of ceasefire violations and doubts over lasting peace. Social media buzzed with hope and skepticism, as analysts eye fragile stability.
