INTERNATIONAL: Historic Gaza Peace Pact Signed by World Leaders
Signing Ceremony Unfolds
World leaders gathered in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, to formalize a landmark ceasefire in Gaza.
U.S. President Donald Trump signed as a key witness, followed by the presidents of Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey.
The event drew dozens of international figures, marking a pivotal moment in regional diplomacy.
Hostage Releases Kick Off
The agreement triggers an immediate ceasefire and the freeing of hostages held in Gaza.
Reports confirm that the process has started, with families reuniting after prolonged captivity. This step aims to ease tensions and pave the way for stability.
Netanyahu’s Notable Absence
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi extended an invitation to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who declined due to an upcoming Jewish holiday.
Local sources suggest underlying concerns over the attendance of Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas and other Muslim leaders.
Netanyahu has consistently opposed any postwar role for the Palestinian Authority in Gaza.
Trump’s Gratitude and Outlook
In his remarks, Trump expressed thanks to contributing nations and dismissed past fears of a broader global conflict.
He assured that detailed guidelines for the accord would follow shortly.
His comments highlighted a shift toward optimism in international relations.
Key Attendees at the Summit
The conference featured prominent figures committed to the process. Among them:
- Jordan’s King Abdullah II
- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
- Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani
- French President Emmanuel Macron
- British Prime Minister Keir Starmer
- Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif
- Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni
- Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas
- India’s Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh
Push for a Two-State Solution
El-Sisi emphasized that Israel’s long-term security hinges on a two-state framework.
He introduced Trump during the proceedings and outlined plans for U.S. collaboration on Gaza’s rebuilding.
An upcoming conference will focus on recovery and development efforts.
Honor for Trump’s Role
In a gesture of appreciation, el-Sisi announced he would bestow Egypt’s top civilian honor, the Order of the Nile, on Trump.
This recognition underscores the U.S. leader’s instrumental part in brokering the deal.
Vision of Renewal
Trump described the occasion as the start of a brighter era, with reconstruction already underway.
He noted that humanitarian supplies, including food and medical aid, would soon flow in abundantly via truck convoys.
The return of hostages to their loved ones signals hope for lasting change.