US President Donald Trump speaks to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in the Knesset in Tel Aviv on Monday (October 13). Photo: AP/PTI
'World needs more Trumps': Israel's standing ovation for US President
Hamas released seven hostages into the custody of the Red Cross , the first to be released as part of a breakthrough ceasefire after two years of war between Israel and Hamas in the devastated Gaza Strip
US President Donald Trump was greeted with a sustained standing ovation by Israeli lawmakers during his address to the Knesset in Jerusalem on Monday (October 13), following the release of 20 hostages as part of a Gaza ceasefire agreement.
The parliament’s speaker, Amir Ohana, praised Trump as a “giant of Jewish history” and declared: “The world needs more Trumps.”
In his remarks, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu credited Trump with strong support for Israel—including backing sovereignty over the Golan Heights—and thanked him for facilitating the hostage deal. The agreement also involves the release of Palestinian prisoners, increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, and a partial Israeli withdrawal.
Earlier, Hamas released seven hostages into the custody of the Red Cross , the first to be released as part of a breakthrough ceasefire after two years of war between Israel and Hamas in the devastated Gaza Strip.
Also read | Israel, Hamas agree to ‘first phase’ of Gaza truce, hostage-prisoner release
There was no immediate information on their condition. Hamas has said 20 living hostages will be exchanged for over 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
Families and friends of hostages broke out into wild cheers as Israeli television channels announced that the hostages were in the hands of the Red Cross. Tens of thousands of Israelis were watching the transfers at public screenings across the country, with a major event being held in Tel Aviv.
Netanyahu declares victory
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared victory on Sunday as the nation awaits the return of hostages after two years.Also read | Netanyahu can’t win Gaza war by flexing military muscle; two-state policy only fix
“Together we achieved tremendous victories, victories that amazed the whole world... But at the same time I must tell you, the fight is not over,” Netanyahu said. “This is an emotional evening, an evening of tears, an evening of joy, because tomorrow our children will return to our borders,” he added, quoting a biblical verse. Follow below for Live updates:
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