"The War is Over" – Trump Declares Gaza Ceasefire as Israel Awaits Hostage Release – Live Updates
But here's where it gets controversial: While Trump claims victory, many wonder—is this truly peace, or just a temporary pause in a decades-long conflict?
1. Trump’s ‘Victory Lap’: A High-Stakes Middle East Trip
Updated 02:33 BST
As Donald Trump boarded Air Force One for Israel, he didn’t just deliver a routine press briefing—he made bold claims that could redefine his legacy. The BBC’s State Department correspondent, Tom Bateman, broke down Trump’s whirlwind schedule, noting the president’s confidence in brokering what he calls a lasting ceasefire.
2. Trump’s Bombshell Remarks: Nobel Hopes, Netanyahu Praise, and Qatar’s Role
Updated 02:17 BST
Standing before the media, Trump didn’t hold back:
- "The war is over in Gaza," he declared, insisting the ceasefire will hold (BBC link). But critics ask: Is this optimism premature?
- "I’m good at solving wars," Trump added, doubling down on his self-proclaimed peacemaker status. He even hinted at resolving the Pakistan-Afghanistan conflict (BBC link)—but later admitted it’ll "have to wait."
- Praise for Netanyahu: Despite past clashes, Trump called Israel’s PM a "wartime president" who "did a very good job."
- Qatar’s surprising turnaround: Once accused of funding terrorism, Qatar now earns Trump’s gratitude for aiding negotiations. Is this a genuine shift, or geopolitical convenience?
- Nobel ambitions: Trump casually mentioned solving "eight wars" (including Gaza) but insisted, "I did this for saving lives." Skeptics, however, question his motives.
3. UK Steps Up: £20M Aid Package for Gaza Announced
Updated 01:53 BST
As world leaders gather in Egypt for peace talks, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer unveiled a £20 million aid package—part of a £116 million yearly commitment—to provide Gaza with clean water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
"Today is the first phase of ending this war," Starmer said, emphasizing long-term security for both Israelis and Palestinians. But will aid reach those who need it most, or get lost in bureaucracy?
4. Tel Aviv’s Emotional Vigil: Hostages Square Goes Live
Updated 01:33 BST
In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, families and supporters prepare for an all-night vigil as large screens broadcast the anticipated release live. Yellow ribbons—symbolizing hope—dot the square, a poignant reminder of the 48 hostages still held.
"Tonight is a yellow all-nighter," organizers posted, capturing the mix of anxiety and cautious hope. But can this moment heal two years of trauma?
5. Hostage Handover: A Delicate, Familiar Process
Updated 01:21 BST
An IDF official confirmed today’s release will mirror past operations:
1. Red Cross escorts hostages to a specialized IDF unit.
2. Transfer to Re’im base, where families await.
3. Medical evacuation if urgent, bypassing reunions for immediate care.
Yet, with 20 alive and 28 bodies returned, the bittersweet reality lingers.
6. Trump’s Gamble: Can Ceasefire Translate to Lasting Peace?
Updated 01:10 BST
Trump’s Middle East trip isn’t just ceremonial—it’s a high-wire act. Flanked by cheers (a rarity in polarized diplomacy), he touted the ceasefire as historic. "Everybody’s amazed," he beamed.
But behind the optimism:
- A proposed "Board of Peace" to oversee Gaza’s reconstruction (Will it avoid past pitfalls?).
- Gaza’s ruins, described by Trump as a "demolition site," raising questions about realistic recovery timelines.
7. The Fragile Truce: Hostages for Prisoners, Aid for Rubble
Updated 01:05 BST
Today’s hostage-prisoner exchange—48 Israelis for 250 Palestinians, including lifers—marks a fraught compromise. Meanwhile, aid trucks roll into Gaza as displaced families return to obliterated neighborhoods.
Trump’s Sharm El-Sheikh summit aims to solidify the ceasefire, but with Hamas and Israel’s deep mistrust, is "peace" just a ceasefire in disguise?
Your Turn: Do you believe Trump’s ceasefire is a turning point—or a temporary fix? Share your thoughts below.
Stay tuned for live updates.
