In a historic address to the Israeli parliament, US President Donald Trump declared that the "long and painful nightmare" of conflict in Gaza is finally over, following a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Trump, who brokered the deal, told Israeli lawmakers that the region is experiencing "the historic dawn of a new Middle East," echoing words he used when Israel signed landmark deals with Arab states during his first presidency.
Trump's speech came as the last 20 living hostages held in Gaza were released by Hamas, marking a significant milestone in the ceasefire agreement. The deal, which took effect on Friday, involves the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and detainees in exchange for the hostages. Trump hailed the agreement as "the most challenging breakthrough of them all, the most challenging breakthrough maybe ever."
Trump's address to the Knesset was met with enthusiasm, with lawmakers chanting "Trump, Trump, Trump" as he entered the chamber. The US president praised Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, calling him "a man of exceptional courage and patriotism." Trump also thanked Arab and Muslim nations for pressuring Hamas to release the hostages, saying, "Let me also convey my tremendous appreciation for all of the nations of the Arab and Muslim world that came together to press Hamas to set the hostages free and to send them home."
The ceasefire agreement marks a significant step towards ending the conflict in Gaza, but challenges remain. The next phases of the deal are still to be negotiated, including Israel's continued withdrawal from Gaza and moves towards the creation of an adjacent Palestinian state. Trump has announced plans to establish a "Board of Peace" to administer the territory and oversee the implementation of the agreement.
The international community has welcomed the ceasefire agreement, with world leaders set to gather in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, for a summit to discuss the next steps towards peace. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and other world leaders will attend the summit, which aims to cement the ceasefire and pave the way for a lasting peace in the region.
Trump's speech was seen as a message of hope for the region, with many Israelis and Palestinians welcoming the ceasefire agreement. "At last, not only for Israelis but also Palestinians, the long and painful nightmare is finally over," Trump said, expressing his optimism about the future.
Credit - BBC News
