After more than a year of war, a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has taken effect, halting fighting across Gaza and allowing the first group of Israeli hostages to be released. The truce, mediated by Egypt and Qatar with U.S. support, also includes the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli detention — a long-sought exchange that offers a glimmer of relief but not yet peace.
Crowds in Tel Aviv erupted in celebration Monday as local news outlets confirmed the first wave of hostages were freed after months of uncertainty. Families wept and waved flags, though Israeli officials cautioned that the deal remains precarious. Across the border, scenes of relief also played out in Gaza and the West Bank, where Palestinians rejoiced over the ceasefire and the return of prisoners, welcoming what many hope will be the beginning of a broader humanitarian reprieve.
The ceasefire’s terms are temporary, intended to facilitate humanitarian aid deliveries and further prisoner exchanges while diplomats push for a more lasting resolution. The conflict has left tens of thousands dead and entire neighborhoods in ruins. International pressure has mounted for an end to hostilities amid worsening humanitarian conditions and regional instability.
Against that backdrop, President Donald Trump addressed Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, in Jerusalem, delivering a 65-minute speech in which he pledged to “forge a future worthy of our heritage.” Trump envisioned an unprecedented network of alliances spanning the Middle East, declaring that “new bonds of friendship, cooperation and commerce will join Tel Aviv to Dubai, Haifa to Beirut, Jerusalem to Damascus.”
But the address also veered off-script, including a startling moment when Trump called on Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption trials. The request drew gasps in the chamber and instant criticism from opposition leaders.
Trump, running hours behind schedule, is next expected to travel to Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, where more than 20 world leaders are gathering for a summit on Gaza’s reconstruction and governance. While the ceasefire offers a rare respite, diplomats and analysts alike warn that deep mistrust between Israel and Hamas could quickly unravel the deal, underscoring that a pause in fighting does not yet mean peace.
