Final Israeli Hostages Released as Trump Addresses Knesset

All remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza have been released, marking a significant step in the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The hostages were returned to Israel on Monday as part of an exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.

President Donald Trump addressed the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, on the same day, highlighting the ceasefire as "the historic dawn of a new Middle East." He emphasized the transition from military victories to achieving lasting peace and prosperity in the region.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude for Trump's leadership, stating that the proposal put forward by the U.S. president garnered near-universal support and facilitated the return of the hostages. Netanyahu also announced his nomination of Trump for the Israel Prize, Israel's highest award.

The ceasefire agreement, brokered with U.S. assistance, aims to end the two-year conflict that began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in significant casualties and hostages. The conflict has led to substantial loss of life and destruction in the Gaza Strip.

As part of the ceasefire, Israel is releasing over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the 20 living hostages. The freed hostages underwent medical screenings and were reunited with their families at the Re’im military facility before being transferred to hospitals for further care.

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed relief over the hostages' release and urged all parties to honor their commitments under the ceasefire to end the conflict in Gaza.

Following his address to the Knesset, President Trump is scheduled to attend the "Summit for Peace," a U.S. and Egyptian-led meeting with leaders from various countries and international organizations to further discuss peace initiatives in the region. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will not attend the summit due to the Jewish holiday of Simchat Torah.