Israeli families in Tel Aviv are eagerly awaiting the release of the remaining Hamas hostages, with growing anger directed at Benjamin Netanyahu. Thousands have congregated at Hostages Square since the ceasefire agreement, with a mix of celebratory and tense atmospheres. The crowd was addressed by Steve Witkoff, Ivanka Trump, and Jared Kushner, instrumental in securing the landmark deal.
Preparations are underway to welcome back the 48 remaining hostages by next week, with Hamas given a Monday deadline. However, there is increasing frustration towards the Israeli Prime Minister for allegedly sabotaging previous peace talks. Israel’s defense minister, Israel Katz, emphasized the urgent need to destroy all of Hamas’s terror tunnels in Gaza following the ceasefire.
While there are no plans for British troops to join the multinational force monitoring the truce, around 200 US troops have arrived in Israel to assist with humanitarian aid and security. Sir Keir Starmer is expected to attend a peace summit in Egypt, co-chaired by President Trump and President El-Sisi, to mark the signing of the Gaza peace plan.
Prior to the arrival of US envoy Steve Witkoff at Hostages Square, there was a mix of excitement and anxiety among families awaiting news about the captives. The city was filled with symbols of hope for the hostages’ return, with concerns about their physical and mental well-being after years of captivity.
In response to scuffles between pro-Palestine demonstrators and counter-protesters, arrests were made by the Metropolitan Police. Hamas has mobilized fighters as Israeli troops withdraw from parts of Gaza, with tensions high in the region.
As the ceasefire takes effect, Palestinians are returning to Gaza City, while Israeli hospitals prepare to receive the first hostages. UN agencies are gearing up to deliver aid into Gaza, as efforts continue to ensure a lasting peace following the ceasefire agreement.
