Ceasefire Triumph: Hostages Freed and Hopes for Middle East Peace Soar

In a historic turn of events, the last of the Israeli hostages held in Gaza were freed as part of a ceasefire agreement, marking a celebratory moment for Israelis and Palestinians. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the development in the Israeli Knesset, proclaiming that peace had finally touched the Holy Land.

The exchange saw Palestinians celebrating the return of their relatives, almost 2,000 in number, freed from Israeli detention. Despite the joyous scenes, formidable challenges remain, with unresolved issues including securing a lasting ceasefire and addressing the future of Hamas, who still refuses to disarm.

President Trump's visit to Sharm el-Sheikh aimed to solidify the truce, with hopes that these breakthroughs would lead to broader peace across the Middle East. However, significant challenges endure, emphasizing the need for humanitarian aid and political resolutions to long-standing tensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)