President Announces Monday Hostage Return and Major Regional Peace Push with Upcoming Mideast Trip
WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday expressed strong confidence that the recently implemented ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip would “hold,” attributing the successful pause in fighting to a mutual exhaustion from the conflict.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, President Trump confirmed his travel plans to the region next week to advance a broader peace agenda.
The President stated his belief that the ceasefire, which came into effect on Friday, would be sustained. “I think it will hold. Yeah. I think it will hold. They’re all tired of fighting,” Trump said, according to a report from Agence France-Presse (AFP).
Trump also gave an update on the imminent release of hostages held by Hamas. He indicated that the return of the hostages is anticipated to take place on Monday. The President also noted the tragic recovery of casualties, stating that “nearly 28 bodies will be recovered” as part of the agreement.
The ceasefire is the first phase of a broader peace plan aimed at ending the two-year conflict that has devastated Gaza.
The President reiterated his plans to visit Israel and Egypt, two key mediators in the negotiations, later this week. His itinerary includes a major diplomatic push for post-conflict stability and peace.
Trump emphasized that the current developments extend beyond the immediate Gaza conflict, framing it as a major opportunity for the region.
“Trump considered that the ceasefire in Gaza would lead to broader peace in the Middle East,” the AFP report stated. “We have some small hotspots currently, but they are very small… It will be very easy to extinguish them. These fires will be controlled very quickly,” Trump added, expressing optimism for a tranquil future in the region.
