Trump Declares 'War is Over' in Gaza During Diplomatic Mission

Tue Oct 14 2025 01:29:20 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As President Trump embarks on a mission to secure the release of hostages from Gaza, he asserts that the ceasefire agreement marks the end of the conflict, praising the roles of key leaders and hinting at future peace negotiations.

In a significant diplomatic move, U.S. President Donald Trump has stated 'the war is over' as he travels to Israel to negotiate the release of hostages under a ceasefire agreement with Hamas. This announcement comes amidst ongoing negotiations for a peace plan designed to stabilize the region and facilitate humanitarian aid to Gaza, where the devastation from military actions has been severe. The ceasefire followed a brutal conflict initiated by Hamas attacks on October 7, which resulted in substantial casualties. Trump's visit aims to lay the groundwork for future peace talks, with an Egyptian summit also on his agenda.

U.S. President Donald Trump has said 'the war is over' as he travels to Israel for the release of hostages from Gaza under the ceasefire deal agreed between Israel and Hamas.

Speaking on board Air Force One, he said the ceasefire would hold and a 'board of peace' would quickly be set up for Gaza, which he said looked like a 'demolition site'.

He also praised the roles of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Qatar, one of the mediators.

The deadline for Hamas to release all the hostages it is still holding in Gaza is midday local time (10:00 BST). Later on Monday, Trump will travel to Egypt for an international summit aiming to end the war.

The conflict was triggered by Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in around 1,200 deaths and over 250 hostages taken. In retaliation, Israel's military response has reportedly led to the deaths of more than 67,000 Palestinians, including over 18,000 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.

The ceasefire took effect after Israel and Hamas agreed to the first phase of a 20-point peace plan brokered by Trump, while further phases are still under negotiation.

Twenty Israeli hostages are believed to be alive, and Hamas is also expected to hand over the remains of up to 28 deceased hostages. In return, Israel is expected to release around 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 detainees from Gaza while increasing the flow of aid into the Strip.

Trump expressed optimism about the ceasefire, stating, 'it's going to hold', and reported satisfaction among stakeholders. In Tel Aviv, hundreds of thousands of Israelis rallied in gratitude for Trump's intervention.

Despite the progress, significant hurdles remain regarding governance in Gaza, the scope of Israeli troop withdrawals, and disarming Hamas as details for later phases of the peace plan are refined.

Trump is scheduled to address the Knesset and then participate in a summit in Sharm el-Sheikh hosted by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, where a document aimed at ending the war is expected to be signed, with leaders from over 20 nations in attendance, including the UK's Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas.

The Israeli Defense Minister has stated that once hostages are returned, military operations will focus on destroying Hamas' underground tunnel systems in Gaza, where humanitarian aid efforts are ramping up.

Palestinians returning to their homes have described widespread devastation, highlighting a massive need for temporary accommodation as many are left homeless. Meanwhile, rescue workers warn of possible unexploded ordnance in recently vacated areas.

Hamas has recalled thousands of its security personnel to strengthen control in regions of Gaza where Israeli forces have retreated, leading to internal clashes and potential instability.