In a bold diplomatic move President Donald Trump arrived in Israel amid a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas marking what many hope is the first step toward lasting regional peace. During his visit he pledged that the Gaza conflict has ended and called for normalization across the Middle East.
As part of the agreement, Israel is set to release 250 Palestinian detainees and free 1,700 held in Gaza, while Hamas will return released hostages and hand over the bodies of militants. The deal excludes senior Hamas leaders and maintains Israeli commitments to dismantle underground infrastructure post-hostage return. Simultaneously, humanitarian corridors are opening and aid is flowing into northern Gaza where hundreds of thousands are displaced and face severe destruction and uncertainty.
In Israel Mr. Trump is slated to address the Knesset and attend the international peace summit in Sharm El Sheikh, where leaders will deliberate on Gaza’s governance, security, reconstruction and the role of international supervision. Critics caution that unresolved questions over Hamas’s disarmament and Gaza’s future remain potential flashpoints.
With the symbolism of a U S president standing in Israel during this delicate transition this visit may be remembered as a turning point—or a moment when fragile hopes were tested.
