US President Donald Trump landed in Tel Aviv on Monday to oversee the first phase of a landmark hostage release agreement between Israel and Hamas a deal he personally helped broker. The visit marks a significant diplomatic push aimed at securing a lasting ceasefire in the region.
As Air Force One touched down at Ben Gurion International Airport, Trump was greeted by Israeli President Isaac Herzog and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. A military band played as the leaders exchanged handshakes on the tarmac, symbolizing renewed hope for peace after nearly two years of conflict.
“Welcome to the state of Israel, Mr. President,” the Ben Gurion control tower announced. “Your visit carries deep meaning for people in this time. Thank you for your friendship and unbreakable bond between our nations.”
Moments after Trump’s arrival, Israel received the first seven hostages released by Hamas Alon Ohel, Eitan Mor, Guy Gilboa-Dalal, Ziv Berman, Gali Berman, Omri Miran, and Matan Angrest who were handed to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza before being transferred to Israeli military custody.
Thirteen more hostages are expected to be released later today, in exchange for approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. The deal also includes the return of 28 bodies of deceased captives, expanded humanitarian aid to Gaza, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from key cities.
Crowds in Hostages Square, Tel Aviv, erupted in applause upon hearing of the first successful releases, with many praising Trump’s role in the breakthrough.
Following his address to Israel’s parliament, the Knesset, Trump is set to travel to Cairo for a multinational peace summit involving delegates from 20 nations, including the UK, France, Turkey, and Spain, as well as the EU and UN.
The release and ceasefire efforts represent a critical step toward ending one of the deadliest chapters in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, though leaders on both sides caution that the road to lasting peace remains long.
