Tens of thousands of people gathered at Hostages Square in Tel Aviv on Saturday, shouting “Thank you, Trump,” to express their gratitude to US President Donald Trump and his team for brokering a ceasefire in Gaza and facilitating the release of hostages held by Hamas.Addressing the crowd, US Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff described the gathering as a “powerful night” and praised Trump, his son-in-law Jared Kushner and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for their efforts.“I dreamed of this night for a long time. This is the most powerful sight. Hearts beating as one, gathered here in Tel Aviv for peace, for unity and for hope in this sacred place we call Hostages Square. I only wish the President was here, ” Witkoff said.Addressing the crowd, Middle East envoy confirmed that the hostages “are coming home” and called Trump “a man who is a humanitarian through and through, with an indomitable spirit,” according to BBC News. Kushner lauded the Israeli people for their resilience and commended Witkoff for handling “this impossible task with a full heart and with a full commitment.” He emphasized that the real celebration would come once the hostages are safely returned.Donald Trump’s daughter, Ivanka Trump also addressed the crowd. She expressed her admiration for the families awaiting the release of their loved ones.“The strength of every family waiting, praying, and believing. I am in awe by their strengths and conviction in spite of such suffering,” she said.Speaking on behalf of her father, she added, “The president wanted me to share… that he sees you, he hears you, he stands with you always, always.”
Thousands attended the rally (AP image)
Meanwhile, in Gaza, Palestinian officials said about 500,000 people have returned to northern areas, largely in ruins, following the withdrawal of Israeli troops.Under the ceasefire and hostage release deal announced on Thursday, Hamas has until 12:00 local time on Monday to release the remaining 48 hostages, 20 of whom are presumed alive. A top Hamas official, Osama Hamdan said that, “according to the signed agreement, the prisoner exchange is set to begin on Monday morning as agreed, and there are no new developments on this matter,” according to AFP. Egypt will host a summit on Monday to finalise the ceasefire and hostage agreement. More than 20 world leaders, including Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron and UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, are expected to attend. The US President is also scheduled to visit Israel before heading to Egypt.