Trump: "Israeli Hostages to Be Released on the 13th or 14th"
As Israel and Hamas have agreed to a first-phase ceasefire, it has been reported that in Israel, Donald Trump, President of the United States, who is considered a key figure in the agreement, is being awaited almost like a messiah.
On the 9th (local time), the French daily Le Parisien reported that President Trump will be welcomed as a hero in Israel in the future. For Israeli citizens who have been waiting for the return of hostages during the two years of ongoing war, President Trump is perceived as a savior who has brought hope.
This sentiment is also reflected in a recent illustration posted by Israeli cartoonist Dana Barlev on her social media account. Last weekend, Barlev sketched President Trump with blond hair shaped like a dove, symbolizing peace. She also posted an image of a hat inspired by Trump's signature "MAGA" (Make America Great Again) cap, but with the message "Make Israel Breathe Again" emblazoned on it.
Expressions of gratitude toward President Trump are also continuing at "Hostage Square" in Tel Aviv, Israel. At rallies supporting the families of hostages, banners expressing thanks to President Trump are being displayed alongside the American flag. Organizations representing the families of hostages and missing persons have requested that if President Trump visits Israel soon, he visit Hostage Square. In a letter sent to President Trump, they wrote, "We want to look you in the eye and convey feelings that words cannot express," adding, "You have helped our families and restored our hope."
Yair Lapid, leader of Israel's centrist opposition party, also wrote on his X (formerly Twitter) account, "There is nothing more appropriate, symbolic, or moving than President Trump delivering a speech at Hostage Square announcing the return of our hostages," adding, "It will be a historic moment."
Meanwhile, President Trump stated that, in connection with the agreement between Israel and Hamas on the first phase of the "Gaza Peace Initiative," all 20 Israeli hostages held by Hamas are expected to be released on the 13th or 14th.
At a cabinet meeting held at the White House that day, President Trump said, "Bringing them back is a very complex process," and added, "I will not say what needs to be done to bring the hostages back. There are places you do not want to go, but we will bring the hostages back on Monday or Tuesday." He continued, "That day will be a day of joy," and said, "I plan to visit in person."
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