The fragile but historic ceasefire between Hamas and Israel Defense Forces entered a decisive phase on Monday as Hamas handed over all 20 surviving Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross. Their release marks a major breakthrough in the ongoing Gaza truce agreement. There is currently no official update on their condition.
Under the terms of the ceasefire, Israel is expected to release more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners, including 1,700 detainees held from Gaza without formal charges. Among those slated for release are approximately 250 prisoners convicted of attacks that killed or injured Israelis, alongside others facing lesser charges.
Adding to the high-stakes atmosphere, Donald Trump arrived in Jerusalem on Monday for a symbolic visit. The U.S. President met with the families of Israeli hostages before addressing Israel&rsquo;s parliament, the Knesset. In his speech, Trump hailed the ceasefire and the hostage release as &ldquo;a historic dawn of a new Middle East.&rdquo; He also declared that &ldquo;Israel has won all that can be won by force of arms&rdquo; while extending &ldquo;a hand of friendship&rdquo; to Iran.
The President will travel to Egypt later in the day for a regional Gaza peace summit with global leaders before returning to Washington on Tuesday.
While the 20 hostages were transferred to the Red Cross, the fate of the remains of up to 28 deceased hostages remains unclear. An international body is expected to help recover and return the remains if they are not released simultaneously.
The ceasefire also includes a significant humanitarian dimension. Hundreds of aid trucks are expected to cross into Gaza through Egypt, with around 400 already lined up on Sunday. Israeli officials said the number will soon rise to 600 trucks daily, aiming to deliver food, medical supplies, and other essential aid to civilians affected by months of conflict.
The next 24 hours are considered critical for the truce to hold. The successful exchange of hostages and prisoners, combined with the entry of humanitarian aid, could pave the way for broader peace efforts in the region. However, any setback in these steps could risk reigniting tensions between the two sides.
The coming days will reveal whether this ceasefire is a brief pause or the beginning of a more lasting peace in Gaza.

Hamas frees hostages, Trump hails truce deal

Hamas hands over 20 hostages as Israel plans prisoner release; Trump calls truce ‘historic

Hamas frees hostages, Trump hails truce deal

Hamas hands over 20 hostages as Israel plans prisoner release; Trump calls truce ‘historic

October 13, 2025 | 15:21 IST