Trump’s Middle East Peace Efforts Lead to Ceasefire in Gaza

SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt — U.S. President Donald Trump visited Egypt on Monday to promote a peace deal in the long-standing conflict between Israel and Hamas, marking a significant development after two years of devastating war in Gaza.

In a critical phase of the agreement, Hamas released the last 20 living Israeli hostages and the remains of two deceased captives, while Israel responded by freeing over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners. The hostages returned to Israel amid emotional scenes, sparking hope for a resolution to the ongoing conflict.

During the Sharm el-Sheikh summit, Trump declared that peace has finally arrived, stating, “The greatest deals happen that way.” He emphasized the importance of working towards a lasting resolution, praising the contributions of regional leaders.

Trump described the summit as historic, highlighting support from various nations for Gaza’s reconstruction. “Numerous countries of great wealth, power, and dignity have pledged backing,” he noted, though he did not disclose specific contributions.

Israel’s Defense Forces confirmed that the bodies of several deceased hostages have been returned for identification, while Hamas continues to hold the remains of 24 others. The focus now shifts to compliance with the peace agreement.

The Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) has called for direct access to Gaza for media outlets, emphasizing the need to cover the plight of Palestinians still detained by Israeli forces.

As global leaders convened to discuss reconstruction efforts and peace talks, discussions of disarmament and military withdrawal from Gaza remain central to achieving long-term stability in the region.

Trump’s remarks drew parallels between his administration’s actions and previous historical figures, with some comparing him to Cyrus the Great for his role in facilitating the return of Jewish hostages.

The situation in Gaza continues to evolve, and the coming days will determine the effectiveness of the ceasefire and the fulfillment of the peace plan. As countries work toward stabilization, both sides remain cautious of the ongoing tensions.