After nearly two years of bloodshed, peace may finally return to Gaza. On Monday, October 13, Hamas and Israel are done with first phase of a historic hostage-prisoner exchange. This comes under a ceasefire deal brokered with US mediation.
US President Donald Trump, who declared that “the war is over in Gaza,” is in the region for a high-stakes peace mission. He is currently in Israel and will visit Egypt as part of his efforts to implement the 20-point Gaza peace plan.
Reporter: “Is the war now officially over?” @POTUS: “Yes.”
President Trump speaks with reporters at the Knesset in Jerusalem 🇺🇸🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/rdiFrRkEye
— Margo Martin (@MargoMartin47) October 13, 2025
Trump is scheduled to co-host a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Leaders from around 20 nations will join the discussions. The goal is to finalise the peace plan and ensure lasting calm in the region.
Hostage Handover Underway
The Israeli military confirmed that all remaining captives are now in the custody of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). The captives are being transferred in coordination with Shin Bet forces inside the Gaza Strip.
It’s official: There are no more living Israeli hostages in Hamas captivity. pic.twitter.com/qa1Lh4vhhv
— Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) October 13, 2025
Even though Israel’s army chief has declared “victory” over Hamas, reports suggest that not all hostages or remains will be returned immediately. The exchange is happening in phases, marking the first significant step towards reconciliation.
This historic operation is a critical moment for the region. The ceasefire and hostage exchange bring hope to families separated by the conflict. The global community is closely monitoring the situation, especially as the Trump-led mission seeks to secure long-term peace.
The operation highlights the importance of international cooperation, with the US and Egypt playing central roles in mediating the conflict.
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