President Donald J. Trump arrived in Israel today to mark a pivotal moment in Middle East diplomacy, coinciding with the release of the first group of hostages held in Gaza under a historic ceasefire agreement brokered by the United States.
Landing at Ben Gurion International Airport aboard Air Force One, President Trump was welcomed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog. His visit comes as Hamas released 20 surviving Israeli hostages into the custody of the Red Cross, with thousands of supporters gathering in Tel Aviv to celebrate their return.
Speaking aboard Air Force One prior to landing, President Trump declared, “The war is over,” and praised the roles of Israel, Qatar, and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff in securing the ceasefire. He also announced plans for a “Board of Peace” to oversee Gaza’s post-conflict reconstruction, describing the region as “a demolition site” in need of urgent humanitarian and infrastructural support.
The ceasefire agreement, hailed as a diplomatic breakthrough, is expected to usher in a new phase of regional stability. President Trump emphasized that “everybody is happy,” noting the emotional reunions taking place across Israel and the international support for the peace initiative.