
President Trump Declares ‘War Is Over in Gaza’ as He Begins Middle East Peace Mission
U.S. President Donald Trump proclaimed on Sunday that the “war is over in Gaza” as he departed for a high-stakes peace mission to Israel and Egypt.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, the 79-year-old president dismissed concerns about the fragile ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas, expressing confidence that the long-running conflict had reached its end.
“The war is over. Okay? You understand that?” Trump told reporters. When asked whether the ceasefire would last, he replied, “I think it’s going to hold. People are tired of it. It’s been going on for centuries.”
Meetings With Israeli Leaders and Hostage Families
Trump’s first stop is Jerusalem, where he is scheduled to meet with families of hostages seized during Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attack. He will also deliver an address to the Israeli parliament, reaffirming U.S. commitment to regional stability.
Following his Israel visit, Trump will travel to Cairo, where he and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi will co-host a global peace summit featuring more than 20 world leaders. The summit aims to support Trump’s initiative to end the Gaza conflict and promote lasting peace in the Middle East.
Trump’s 20-Point Peace Plan
The trip also serves as a victory lap for Trump’s 20-point peace plan, unveiled in late September. The plan, credited with helping broker the current Gaza ceasefire, is designed to create a new framework for governance and reconstruction in the region.
“Everyone’s very excited about this moment. It’s a very special event,” Trump said before departing Joint Base Andrews near Washington, holding an umbrella as light rain fell.
He was accompanied by top U.S. officials including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, and Joint Chiefs Chair Dan Caine.
Challenges Ahead: Disarmament and Withdrawal
Despite the optimism, major obstacles remain. Hamas’s refusal to disarm and Israel’s hesitation to commit to a full withdrawal from Gaza continue to cast uncertainty over the agreement’s future.
Trump said he had obtained “verbal guarantees” from both sides and regional partners. “We have a lot of verbal guarantees, and I don’t think they’re going to want to disappoint me,” he remarked.
The U.S. president also described his relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as “very good,” noting that while they’ve had disagreements, “they were quickly settled.”
Plans for Gaza’s Future Government
Trump reiterated his intention to establish a new governing body for Gaza, which he said would be formed “very quickly.” Under his plan, he would personally oversee the transitional process.
He also hinted at a potential future visit to Gaza, saying, “I would be proud to. I’d like to put my feet on it at least.”
However, Trump appeared to reconsider his earlier proposal to involve former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, acknowledging Blair’s controversial legacy in the Middle East following the 2003 Iraq War. “I’ve always liked Tony,” Trump said, “but I want to make sure he’s acceptable to everyone.”
Conclusion
Trump’s declaration that the Gaza war is over marks a significant diplomatic moment, but the success of his peace plan will depend on the fragile balance between Hamas, Israel, and regional stakeholders. As the world watches his Middle East tour unfold, many remain cautiously hopeful that a lasting peace in Gaza may finally be within reach.
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