U.S. President Donald Trump said the war is over in Gaza 🕊️ as a landmark hostage-prisoner swap is set to kick off this Monday. After nearly two years in captivity, Israeli hostages could finally be heading home while Israel prepares to free around 2,000 Palestinian detainees. For many of us scrolling news on our phones between classes or work, this feels as intense as waiting for the next episode drop of a hit K-drama 📱.
The Big Swap 🤝
Under the new ceasefire, Hamas will release 20 living hostages plus the remains of 28 others, and Israel will free roughly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, mostly women, minors and those serving medium-term sentences. Negotiations are still tense, with both sides debating high-profile names like Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti.
Hope vs. Reality 🌅
Trump's visit to Israel and Egypt aims to build momentum. He'll meet hostage families in Jerusalem before heading to Sharm el-Sheikh for a peace summit co-hosted with Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. Over 20 world leaders are expected to join, but big questions remain on Gaza's future governance and Hamas's disarmament.
Humanitarian Relief 📦
The U.N. has started a major aid push in Gaza: cooking gas is flowing in for the first time since March, and hundreds of thousands of hot meals and bread bundles have been distributed. For many Gazans, these basic essentials bring a much-needed lifeline.
What's Next? 🤔
Even with the swap, Israeli officials warn the military campaign isn't over. Teams are gearing up to dismantle Hamas's tunnel networks, and talks will continue on who gets released. Eyes are on Monday's summit for new pledges. Will this be the turning point for lasting peace?
Reference(s):
Trump says 'war is over' in Gaza as hostage-prisoner swap nears
cgtn.com
