Major Breakthrough in Gaza Conflict
In a historic development that could mark a turning point in the long-running Gaza conflict, Hamas has released all remaining living Israeli hostages as part of a comprehensive prisoner exchange deal brokered by US President Donald Trump. The carefully orchestrated operation saw 20 Israeli hostages transferred to the Red Cross in Gaza, while nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners began their journey to freedom from Israeli detention facilities.
The Hostage Release Operation
The release unfolded in two phases throughout Monday morning. At approximately 7:00 AM local time, the first group of seven Israeli hostages was freed in northern Gaza. Shortly after, Hamas transferred the remaining thirteen living hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross. 'This is something they've been waiting for two years,' said Nasrah Habiballah, correspondent for Israel and Palestinian territories. 'Some can't believe this day has arrived. The atmosphere is incredibly jubilant - there's cheering, clapping, and everyone is very emotional.'
The moment of the hostages' release occurred away from cameras, but later footage showed Red Cross vehicles departing the area. On 'Hostage Square' in Tel Aviv, cheers erupted as news of the release spread. The condition of the hostages remains unknown, though they are expected to be reunited with their families shortly.
Palestinian Prisoners Return Home
Simultaneously, buses began transporting Palestinian prisoners from Israeli detention facilities. According to sources cited by Reuters, all 1,966 Palestinian prisoners boarded buses for release. The exchange included 250 prisoners serving life sentences who will be released in the West Bank, Jerusalem, and abroad, while the remaining 1,716 are being transported to Nasser Hospital in Gaza.
A significant portion of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli detention are held without trial as administrative detainees. Previous prisoner releases have shown some individuals in poor physical and mental health, though the current condition of those being freed remains unclear.
Trump's Peace Plan Takes Shape
The exchange represents the first phase of President Trump's 20-point peace plan to end the Gaza war. Last week, Israel and Hamas reached an agreement that includes a ceasefire, hostage and prisoner releases, and partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. Future phases will address Hamas disarmament and the establishment of new governance in the Gaza Strip without Hamas involvement.
President Trump delivered a historic speech to the Israeli Knesset following the breakthrough, receiving multiple standing ovations. 'I'm with you all the way,' Trump told Israeli lawmakers, according to CBS News. The speech was briefly interrupted by two Israeli lawmakers holding 'Recognize Palestine' signs, who were removed from the parliament.
Public Reaction and Political Implications
The mood in Israel is overwhelmingly positive, with Trump being hailed as the hero who achieved what previous administrations could not. 'American President Trump is seen as the hero who made this happen,' Habiballah noted. 'Everywhere you see American flags, also ahead of Trump's visit to the Israeli parliament today. Along highways there are billboards with photos of Trump with the text underneath: "Trump, thank you." That's the feeling many people here have.'
In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces criticism for the two-year delay in securing the hostages' release. Many Israelis feel he prioritized other objectives over bringing the hostages home.
In Ramallah on the West Bank, massive crowds welcomed the returning Palestinian prisoners, celebrating what many see as a victory after years of conflict. The exchange represents the largest prisoner swap since the conflict began with Hamas's October 7, 2023 attack on Israel, which killed 1,143 people and triggered the ongoing war that has claimed over 67,000 Palestinian lives according to Wikipedia.
The successful implementation of this first phase raises hopes for broader peace negotiations, though significant challenges remain regarding Gaza's future governance and the complete disarmament of Hamas. As the region watches closely, the coming days will determine whether this breakthrough can lead to lasting peace or represents merely a temporary pause in the long-standing conflict.