UPDATE: A massive rally in Tel Aviv erupted in cheers as US envoy Steve Witkoff addressed an estimated hundreds of thousands of Israelis, celebrating the expected release of hostages from the Gaza Strip. This comes as the ceasefire holds for a second day, allowing tens of thousands of Palestinians to return to their devastated neighborhoods.
In a heartfelt message to the crowd, Witkoff proclaimed, “To the hostages themselves, our brothers and sisters, you are coming home.” Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law, joined Witkoff in expressing optimism that hostages would be freed on Monday, with the Israeli military confirming that 48 hostages remain in captivity, of which around 20 are believed to be alive.
Amid the celebration, Mahmoud al-Shandoghli, a resident of Gaza City, lamented the destruction: “Gaza is completely destroyed. I have no idea where we should live or where to go.” As bulldozers cleared rubble, a boy climbed debris to raise the Palestinian flag, symbolizing the struggle for identity amidst chaos.
The atmosphere in Tel Aviv was electrifying, with many waving US flags and taking selfies. Attendees expressed mixed emotions; Yaniv Peretz noted, “It’s a really happy time, but we know that there are going to be some incredibly difficult moments coming.”
In a significant move, about 200 US troops have arrived in Israel to monitor the fragile ceasefire with Hamas. They will assist in facilitating humanitarian aid and logistical support, without deploying on the ground in Gaza, as confirmed by Admiral Brad Cooper, head of the US military’s Central Command.
The ceasefire agreement stipulates that Hamas must provide information on any hostages not released within the first 72 hours. In return, Israel will disclose information regarding deceased Palestinians held in Israel. This mechanism will be supported by mediators, including the International Committee of the Red Cross.
Furthermore, Israel is set to release approximately 250 Palestinians currently imprisoned, alongside around 1,700 individuals captured from Gaza over the last two years without charges.
On the international front, French President Emmanuel Macron is scheduled to visit Egypt on December 4, 2023, for discussions on a peace plan initiated by Donald Trump. This plan seeks to establish a permanent ceasefire, secure the release of all hostages, and restore humanitarian access to Gaza.
Egypt is also preparing for an international summit in Sharm el-Sheikh, co-chaired by Trump and Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sissi. Reports indicate that several European and Arab leaders are expected to attend this pivotal meeting, aimed at solidifying the peace agreement.
As developments unfold, the world watches closely, with anticipation for both the release of hostages and the potential for lasting peace in a region long plagued by conflict.
