Tears, cheers, and a ‘Nobel for Trump’ as Hamas-Israel ceasefire deal promises return of hostages, prisoners
As the Tel Aviv square filled with the sounds of cheering, weeping, and singing, one sentiment united the crowd: cautious hope. For the first time in nearly two years, families dared to believe that the nightmare might finally be ending — and that peace, however fragile, could be within reach.
In the early hours today, the central square in Tel Aviv became a scene of jubilation, relief, and disbelief as families of hostages and their supporters gathered to celebrate the news of an agreement between Israel and Hamas. Chanting ‘Nobel Prize for Trump’, the crowds filled the square, embracing one another as hope finally replaced despair after two long years of war.
The celebrations came as the United Nations and world leaders welcomed what has been described as the most significant diplomatic breakthrough since the conflict began. UN Secretary-General António Guterres called the agreement a “ray of hope,” urging all parties to fully honor the terms of the deal. He commended the efforts of the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye in brokering the ceasefire and pledged UN support for humanitarian operations in Gaza, reports dw.com
UN General Assembly President Annalena Baerbock echoed Guterres, emphasizing that after “more than 700 days of death, destruction and despair,” the ceasefire must mark a turning point. Both leaders reiterated the UN’s enduring support for a two-state solution as the only sustainable path to peace.
According to early reports, the first phase of the agreement involves Israel’s withdrawal of troops to a mutually agreed boundary and an exchange of hostages held in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners.
The deal is expected to be formally signed in Egypt today, though key logistical details remain under discussion. Qatar’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Majed Al Ansari confirmed that all provisions for this “first phase” had been agreed upon, describing it as a critical step toward ending the war, freeing hostages, and allowing aid into Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the development as “a big day for Israel.” He announced that he would convene his cabinet to approve the agreement, adding that “thanks to the courage and sacrifice of our soldiers and security forces, we have reached this day.” President Isaac Herzog also expressed unity with the hostages’ families, writing, “The heart of Israel beats as one with the hostages and their families.”
While the emotional scenes in Tel Aviv brought a sense of relief, many families remain cautious. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum said it received the news “with a mix of excitement, anticipation, and concern,” emphasizing that “our struggle is not over and will not end until the last hostage returns.” Hamas is currently believed to be holding 48 Israeli hostages, less than half of whom are thought to be alive.
US President Donald Trump, who unveiled the 20-point Gaza peace plan and facilitated the breakthrough through indirect talks in Egypt, confirmed that all hostages — including the remains of the deceased — are expected to be returned by Monday. Speaking on Fox News, he said, “We think they’ll all be coming back on Monday… and that’ll include the bodies of the dead.”
Hamas also confirmed the deal, saying it guarantees “an end to the war in Gaza, the withdrawal of occupation forces, the entry of humanitarian aid, and the exchange of prisoners.” The group called on Trump to ensure Israel fully implements the terms and “does not evade or procrastinate.” Senior Hamas official Zaher Jabarin said a list of Palestinian prisoners for release had been submitted, though final approval of names is still pending.
Trump, buoyed by what could become one of his most consequential foreign policy achievements, announced that he may travel to the Middle East “shortly” to follow up on the deal’s implementation. “This means that all of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their troops to an agreed-upon line as the first steps toward a strong, durable, and everlasting peace,” he said.
As the Tel Aviv square filled with the sounds of cheering, weeping, and singing, one sentiment united the crowd: cautious hope. For the first time in nearly two years, families dared to believe that the nightmare might finally be ending — and that peace, however fragile, could be within reach.
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