Netanyahu calls for unity in Israel: What’s next for hostages and Gaza?
Jerusalem:Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for unity on Sunday as hostages held in Gaza prepare for release under a ceasefire deal. In a televised address, he described the moment as “an evening of tears, an evening of joy” and said it marked the start of “a path of rebuilding, healing, and united hearts.”
The Gaza ceasefire is holding for the third consecutive day, enabling humanitarian agencies to deliver essential supplies. For the first time since March, cooking gas, flour, fruit, meat, and medical equipment have entered the territory. Officials are also relocating vulnerable residents from flood-prone areas ahead of winter.
US involvement: Trump and troops on the ground
US President Donald Trump is set to arrive in Israel Monday to meet families of hostages and address the Knesset. He will continue to Egypt to co-chair a peace summit with President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi. About 200 US troops are already in the region to monitor the ceasefire and facilitate aid distribution, according to Vice President JD Vance.
Hostage and prisoner releases
Approximately 20 Israeli hostages held in Gaza are expected to be released Monday. In exchange, Israel will free roughly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences and 1,700 others seized during the war. Gaza authorities are preparing for 1,900 returning prisoners who may require urgent medical care.
World leaders attending the Egyptian summit include German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and EU Council President António Costa. Germany has pledged humanitarian aid and support for maintaining the ceasefire, highlighting the global focus on stabilising the region.
Hamas-run police continue patrolling areas cleared by Israeli forces. Aid trucks have crossed Rafah and Kerem Shalom crossings, carrying medical supplies, tents, blankets, food, and fuel, marking a significant scale-up in humanitarian relief operations.
Looking ahead: Can peace endure?
Netanyahu’s appeal for national unity coincides with international efforts to stabilise the region, ensure safe return of hostages, and provide urgent relief to civilians. Experts note that the next few days will be critical in determining whether the ceasefire and cooperation can lead to long-term peace.
(With AFP inputs)