Donald Trump signs historic Israel-Hamas peace deal as Keir Starmer watches on

'Time to finally let international journalists come into Gaza', says UNRWA chief

The head of the UN agency for helping Palestinian refugees says it is "time to finally let international journalists come into Gaza freely"

Taking to social media, the commissioner-general for the UN Relief and Work Agency for Palestinian Refugees, said: "Finally, a day of positive emotions & a reunion for Israeli & Palestinian families shedding some light of hope after more than two years of total darkness.

"Time to build a future of peace through healing, justice & mutual recognition. Time for rebuilding lives and dreams through education.

"Time to let in humanitarian aid at scale, including through UNRWA."

"Time to finally let international journalists come into Gaza freely to support and pay tribute to the heroic work of Palestinian journalists."

Keir Starmer plays down calls for Donald Trump Nobel Peace Prize nomination

Keir Starmer has played down calls for Donald Trump to be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.

When asked if he will personally nominate Donald Trump for the award, the Prime Minister said: "There'll be plenty of people, I'm sure, nominating him.

"I think the nominations are in the early part of next year.

He added: "But In all seriousness, it is a historic day, and it is a real tribute to President Trump that he has got leaders to this position."

"This has been tried for many, many years and stepping away from the personalities, this is a huge relief for hostages and their families. Huge relief for civilians in Gaza, all of whom have been through unimaginable grief for two and a bit years now.

"And they are first and foremost in my mind. And that's what gives me the determination to follow through now and to take other leaders with us on this. That's the only thing I've been talking about today. Not celebrating today as historic, which of course it is, but using the opportunity here with other leaders to say, how can we now, as a group of leaders, make sure that this is implemented in full, brings about the peace?

"We owe that to the Israelis and the Palestinians, and I'm determined that the United Kingdom will play its full part."

Keir Starmer credits Donald Trump with the historic peace deal

Keir Starmer credited Donald Trump with the historic peace deal.

The Prime Minister added: "The challenge now is tomorrow and implementation and therefore yesterday is historic. But what happens tomorrow really matters.

"That's why what I've been discussing with leaders all day is what part can we play? And we, the United Kingdom in particular, I think can play a part in monitoring the ceasefire, but also decommissioning the capability of Hamas and their weaponry.

The Prime Minister said that the UK can draw on the experiences in Northern Ireland.

He added: "The question today has already moved to how do we implement, how do we make sure this moves forward? And it's really important that we keep that focus. We mustn't have any missteps now."

Speaking on Tony Blair's future role in the Middle East, Sir Keir said: "That's for others to decide. Tony Blair was a great leader of our country and would make a huge contribution.

"But I'm not focused on which particular people should sit on which particular board. I'm focused on what do we need to do tomorrow and I mean tomorrow to make sure this is implemented."

"There's discussions going on about who should be on the board, but I can be clear with you, I haven't put myself forward for that role.

"What I have put myself forward for, what I've put our country forward for, is to ensure that we keep doing what we're best at, which is working, as we have done behind the scenes, to help get this deal to where it is today."

PICTURED: Tony Blair poses with Donald Trump in Egypt

President Donald Trump and former Prime Minister Tony Blair pose for a photo together in Egypt.

Four coffins of deceased hostages are on their way to Israel, IDF confirms

Four coffins of deceased hostages are on their way to Israel, the Israeli military says.

In a statement, the Israel Defence Forces says they will be transferred to the National Centre of Forensic Medicine "for identification procedures".

The IDF doesn't name the four being returned, but earlier on, Hamas named four hostages whose bodies it said would be released today.

The Israeli military says that before the coffins cross into Israel from Gaza, "IDF soldiers will drape the hostages’ coffins with Israeli flags, salute them, and recite a chapter from the Book of Psalms" in the hostages' memory.

'Where is the United Kingdom?!' Donald Trump invites Keir Starmer to peace summit stage after signing Gaza deal

Donald Trump has invited Sir Keir Starmer up onto the stage during his keynote address at the Gaza peace summit in Egypt.

Heaping praise on the attending countries at the summit, the US President gave a shoutout to Britain, inviting the Prime Minister to join him.

Looking for Sir Keir, Mr Trump asked: "Where is the United Kingdom?! Where is our friend?"

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

'Prayers of millions have finally been answered', says Donald Trump

Donald Trump said: "This is the day that people across the region and around the world have been working, striving, hoping and praying for.”

"Nobody thought this could happen. With the historic agreement we’ve just signed those prayers of millions have finally been answered."

The US President said that together they have achieved "what everybody said was impossible, at long last, we have peace in the Middle East."

He adds: "It's so beautiful to see a new and beautiful day is rising. And now the rebuilding begins."

President Trump expresses his "tremendous gratitude to the Arab and Muslim nations".

He said that they "helped make this incredible breakthrough possible".

President Trump then declared that "a new and beautiful day is rising", and that rebuilding will begin in Gaza.

He said: "Rebuilding is maybe going to be the easiest part."

"I think we’ve done a lot of the hardest part.”

Hamas hands over bodies of two more hostages, IDF confirm

Israel says the Red Cross has now received two more coffins of deceased hostages from Hamas.

In an update, the Israeli military said that two more coffins are now on their way to its forces inside Gaza.

It adds: "Hamas is required to uphold the agreement and take the necessary steps to return all the deceased hostages."

The militant said it would release the bodies of four deceased hostages today.

The first two were released around two hours ago.

Donald Trump declares WW3 'is not going to happen' as he signs Gaza peace deal

US President Donald Trump has declared World War 3 "will not happen" as he signs his Gaza peace deal amongst world leaders.

Speaking at the peace summit in Egypt, Mr Trump said: "This is something that's taken off like a rocket ship, and it did from the beginning. And I've heard for years this is the biggest deal, long before I ran for office, that the Middle East, it's the biggest, most complicated deal.

"And also, it's the place that could lead to tremendous problems like World War 3. They always talk about World War 3 would start in the Middle East, and that's not going to happen. We don't want it to start anywhere, actually, but it's not going to happen."

WATCH THE CLIP ABOVE

​Donald Trump and mediators sign historic Israel-Gaza peace deal

Donald Trump has said that the peace deal will "spell out rules, regulations", describing it as "very comprehensive".

The US President also spoke on the return of Israeli bodies from Gaza.

He said: "They're being sorted out", adding: "They're working out to find out where those bodies are."

The peace document was then signed during the international summit.

Zelensky will meet Trump in Washington on Friday

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said he plans to meet US President Donald Trump in Washington on Friday.

The two are set to discuss Ukraine's air defence and long-range strike capabilities.

Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelenskiy said that he had shared with Trump a "vision" of how many US Tomahawk missiles Ukraine needs for its war effort against Russia and that the two leaders would discuss further details on the matter on Friday.

PICTURED: World leaders gather for photo ahead of historic Israel-Gaza peace deal

World leaders, including US President Donald Trump and Keir Starmer, pose for a photo at the summit on ending the Gaza war.

It follows the US-brokered prisoner-hostage swap and ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, in Sharm el-Sheikh.

PICTURED: Keir Starmer and Donald Trump at historic Israel-Gaza peace summit

Keir Starmer and Donald Trump stood side-by-side at a historic Israel-Gaza peace summit.

The US president is standing on a red-carpet stage and welcoming world leaders one by one to take a photo with him.

Sir Keir and Mr Trump shared a warm handshake before smiling for the cameras.

Donald Trump praises Egyptian President over 'very important role'

President Donald Trump has praised Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, as the two leaders appeared together before an international summit on the Gaza deal.

He said: "He played a very important role. I appreciate it very much."

President Trump referred to the Egyptian as a powerful leader who keeps crime down in his country.

Donald Trump asked about Gaza 'next steps'

President Trump, speaking in Sharm el-Sheikh alongside Egypt's president, was asked about the "next steps" for Gaza.

He said: "They're going and looking for bodies. It's a pretty gruesome task. They know where numbers are. I guess five or six are in now.

"They're looking for bodies. They know the areas. They're going to be finding quite a few of them."

WATCH: Donald Trump arrives in Egypt for historic peace summit

Donald Trump has arrived in Egypt for the historic peace summit.

WATCH THE FULL CLIP ABOVE

Hamas hands over remains of two deceased hostages, an official said

Hamas has handed over the remains of two deceased hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza, an official involved in the operation said.

Hamas's armed wing earlier said it would hand over the bodies of four hostages.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz criticised Hamas of showing a "failure to meet commitments".

Under President Trump's peace plan, Hamas was required to release all hostages, alive and dead, though the group has indicated that recovering the bodies of some dead hostages may take longer, as not all burial sites are known.

Tony Blair arrives in Egypt for peace summit

Tony Blair has arrived in Sharm el-Sheikh for today's summit on Gaza and peace in the Middle East.

The former Prime Minister was part of a late August meeting that President Trump presided over to tackle Israel's war in Gaza and post-war plans for the Palestinian territory.

He has since joined plans to form a transitional authority to govern the region.

It is unclear how much of a role Mr Blair will play, with President Trump failing to give a definitive answer when asked about his continued involvement.

Red Cross personnel travelling to Gaza to retrieve "several coffins", Israeli military officials confirmed

Red Cross personnel are currently travelling to southern Gaza to retrieve "several coffins" containing hostages, Israeli military officials have confirmed.

Hamas's military wing, the al-Qassam Brigades, announced that four hostage bodies would be transferred during today's prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas.

The Hostages and Missing Families Forum has stated that today's transfer represents only four of the 28 deceased hostages' bodies held by Hamas.

The organisation has denounced this partial return as a "blatant breach" of the existing agreement, which stipulated that Hamas would return all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased.

IDF demanding Hamas 'uphold its end of the deal' over hostage release

Israel is demanding that Hamas "uphold its end of the deal" and return the bodies of all the hostages in Gaza.

IDF spokesman Effie Defrin said: "We have been informed that later today, approximately four fallen hostages will be returned. Even at this hour, efforts are being made at all levels to exert pressure for the continuation of the process to return the bodies of the fallen.

"We demand that Hamas uphold its part of the agreement, [we] will not rest until all return to their families and to burial in Israel."

WATCH: Released Israeli hostage Matan Zangauker hugs family for first time in two years

An emotional moment unfolded as released hostage Matan Zangauker embraced his mother for the first time in two years.

Mr Zangauker was among those freed today as part of the latest exchange deal.

His mother told him that his sister and his fiancée, former hostage Ilana Gritzewsky, were waiting to see him.

President Trump departs Israel for global leaders summit

Donald Trump has boarded Air Force One ahead of his departure from Tel Aviv for a global leaders summit in Egypt.

The President turned and waved to reporters on the runway in Ben Gurion Airport before boarding the official aircraft.

Leaders, including Sir Keir Starmer, are meeting in Sharm el-Sheikh to sign the peace plan for Israel and Gaza.

Thousands gather in Khan Younis hospital in the southern Gaza Strip

Several thousand people gathered inside and around the Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip, awaiting the arrival of freed prisoners, with some waving Palestinian flags and others holding pictures of their relatives.

Fighting back tears, one woman who asked to be identified as Um Ahmed said she said that despite her joy at the release, she still had "mixed feelings" about the day.

"I am happy for our sons who are being freed, but we are still in pain for all the those who had been killed by the occupation, and all the destruction that happened to our Gaza," she told reporters by voice note.

Only 4 of the 28 bodies of Israeli hostages set to return as families forum slam 'blatant breach'

Only four of the 28 bodies of dead Israeli hostages will be returned to Israel today, in what family groups call a "blatant breach" of the peace agreement.

Hamas had warned that it would struggle to locate some of the bodies, but the Hostage and Missing Families Forum said it is "shocked and dismayed".

The group said in a statement: "We expect Israel's government and the mediators to take immediate action to rectify this grave injustice.

"The families of the deceased hostages are enduring especially difficult days filled with deep sorrow.

"We will not abandon any hostage; the mediators must enforce the agreement's terms and ensure Hamas pays the price for this violation."

Palestinians celebrating after prisoners returned to Gaza

Palestinians were celebrating after prisoners returned to Gaza and the West Bank.

The prisoners were released after the Hamas militant group freed the last 20 living hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attacks that precipitated the war in Gaza.

Under the deal, Israel is set to release 250 Palestinians convicted of murder and other serious crimes as well as 1,700 Palestinians detained in Gaza since the war began, 22 Palestinian minors, and the bodies of 360 militants.

In Ramallah, in the Israeli occupied West Bank, Samer Halabeya, a doctor freed from jail where he was serving a sentence for planning an attack that wounded an Israeli officer, said the prisoners had only learned they would be released long after the agreement had been signed.

"We hope that everyone gets freed," he told Reuters as he stood next to his weeping mother.

Mohammad Al-Khatib, who had spent 20 years in an Israeli prison for killing three Israelis, said he couldn't believe he would soon be united with his family in Bethlehem.

"We have always had hope, that's why we continued to be steadfast," Khatib told reporters.

REVEALED: Sign held up by left-wing Knesset member during President Trump's speech

Ayman Odeh, a member of the Israeli Knesset who made the interruption, says on social media: "They removed me from the plenum just because I raised the simplest demand, a demand that the entire international community agrees on: to recognize a Palestinian state.

"To recognize this simple reality: there are two peoples here, and neither is going anywhere."

President Trump wraps speech calling for 'new bonds of friendship'

Donald Trump has concluded his hour-long speech in Knesset saying: "We're going to build a legacy, new bonds of friendship."

He said: "We have built industries together, we have made discoveries together, we have confronted evil together, and we have waged war together, and perhaps most beautifully of all, we have made peace together.

"And this week, against all odds, we have done the impossible, and brought our hostages home."

He was met with chants of "Trump, Trump, Trump" from Israeli politicians.

Donald Trump calls for pardon for Benjamin Netanyahu

Donald Trump has called Israeli President Isaac Herzog to pardon Benjamin Netanyahu.

He said Mr Netanyahu had a "heart of David".

The Israeli Prime Minister denies charges of bribery, fraud and breach of trust, for which he has been on trial since 2020.

In June, Mr Trump called for the case to be thrown out, branding it a "witch hunt" which sparked criticism from Mr Netanyahu’s opposition that he was attempting to interfere in Israel’s justice system.

President Donald Trump says Gaza should 'focus on AI'

Donald Trump has said that Gaza should focus on artificial intelligence in its rebuilding efforts.

He told the Knesset: "Instead of making weapons and missiles, the wealth of this region should flow to schools and medicine industry,.

"And frankly, the new hot thing artificial intelligence. That’s, that’s really the hot one.

"The total focus of Gazans must be on restoring the fundamentals of stability, safety, dignity and economic development so they can finally have the better life that their children really do deserve."

WATCH: Protester heckles Donald Trump during speech to Israeli parliament as security forced to intervene

Donald Trump says the 'world is loving Israel again'

Donald Trump said: "You’ve come back strong, because it was getting to be a little nasty out there in the world. And ultimately, the world wins. You can’t beat the world,

"If you would have gone on for three, four more years, keep fighting, fighting, fighting. It was it was getting bad. It was getting heated. The timing of this is brilliant.

"I said, Bibi, you’re going to be remembered for this far more than if you kept this thing going, going, going, kill, kill. I just want to congratulate you for having the courage to say that’s it.

"The world is loving Israel again."

Donald Trump says he intends to be partner in rebuilding of Gaza

Donald Trump says he intends to be a partner in effort to rebuild Gaza.

The US President added: "I want to thank Arabs and Muslim nations for supporting safe rebuilding of Gaza.

"This is the chance for Palestinians to turn forever from path of violence."

He thanked Arab and Muslim nations who have offered to put "a lot" money into rebuilding Gaza.

Benjamin Netanyahu jeered in Tel Aviv 

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was jeered at when his speech was broadcast to crowds in the centre of Tel Aviv.

The MC over the speaker in Hostages Square said "No, no, no...Guys, we’re honouring Trump."

US envoy Steve Witkoff spoke to crowds last night who had gathered to celebrate the imminent return of Israeli captives.

The crowd booed every time Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was mentioned, who they blame for prolonging the war.

Donald Trump says October 7 'struck to the core of humanity'

President Donald Trump said the October 7 attack "struck to the core of humanity itself."

He told the Knesset: "Thousands of innocent Israeli civilians were attacked by terrorists" in one of the "most evil and heinous desecrations of innocent life the world has ever seen."

"The United States of America grieved alongside you, and we mourn for our own citizens who were so viciously taken that day, and to all the families whose lives were forever changed by the atrocities of that day and all of the people of Israel, please know that America joins you in those two everlasting vows, never forget and never again."

Benjamin Netanyahu 'not the easiest guy to deal with' says Mr Trump

Donald Trump said Benjamin Netanyahu is "not the easiest guy to deal with" as he continued his speech in the Knesset.

"But that's what makes him great," Mr Trump added.

He later said: "You're not at war anymore Bibi [The nickname for the Israeli Prime Minister], you can be nicer."

Opposition leader says 'there was no genocide' in Gaza

The leader of the centrist Yesh Atid party and former Prime Minister Yair Lapid denied there was a genocide going on in Gaza as he took a swipe at pro-Palestine protests in Europe.

Mr Lapid said: "To all those who demonstrated against Israel these past two years on the streets of London and Rome, in Paris and Columbia University....[you were] deceived... propaganda experts, funded by terror, money, manipulate you.

"Now that the war is stopped, you have time and a chance to go and learn the facts: The truth is, there was no genocide, no intentional starvation."

Left wing Israeli politician charges towards Donald Trump during speech in security scare

Donald Trump was left startled today when a heckler interrupted his address to the Israeli Parliament.

As he spoke about the peace treaty, a protester charged towards the US President as security stepped into action.

Ofer Cassif, a 60-year-old politician, was bundled out by security after a loud noise and shouts towards Trump. Ayman Odeh, 50, another Knesset member from the same Hadash alliance political group, was also removed from the chamber.

Donald Trump says 'the guns are silent' as the region is now 'at peace'

President Donald Trump has said "the guns are silent" as he welcomed the end of the war in Gaza.

He told the Knesset podium: "We gather on a day of profound joy and soaring hope.

"After two harrowing years in darkness and captivity, 20 courageous hostages are returning to the glorious embrace of their families.

"Twenty-eight more precious loved ones are coming home at last to rest in this sacred soil for all of time. The guns are silent."

He added the region is now "at peace".

Donald Trump up to the Knesset podium

President Donald Trump is finally up to the podium in the Knesset building in Jerusalem.

The President will say that countries working together towards peace in Gaza represents an "incredible triumph for Israel and the world."

He welcomed what he described as a "new Middle East."

Benjamin Netanyahu concludes speech saying Israel is 'here to stay'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has concluded his speech saying the enemies of Israel now know the country is "here to stay."

He told the Knesset the October 7 attack was a "catastrophic mistake," adding that Israel, as a nation, is "strong."

Mr Netanyahu continued: "I extend my hand to those who seek peace with us...No one wants peace more than the state of Israel...it is time to expand the circle of peace."

Benjamin Netanyahu says he is 'committed to this peace' as he thanked Donald Trump

Benjamin Netanyahu said he is "committed to this peace" as he said Donald Trump's name will be "engraved" in Israeli history.

The Israeli Prime Minister said: "We know what your important part has been, a decisive part in the return decisive part in the return the rest of our hostages."

"No American president has ever done more for Israel, and as I said in Washington, it ain’t even close. It’s really not a match.

"No one wants peace more than the people of Israel."

WATCH: Israel vows to 'rally world leaders' to nominate Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize

Speaker of Israel's Parliament Amir Ohana revealed today that the country will "rally Prime ministers and world leaders" to nominate US President Donald Trump for the next Nobel Peace Prize.

Speaking ahead of President Trump's address to the Israeli Parliament, Mr Ohana said: "You, more than any other individual, are deserving of the highest recognition for your efforts in promoting peace.

"Therefore, I hereby announce that together with our good friend, speaker of the House Mike Johnson, we will rally speakers and presidents of parliaments from around the world to submit your candidacy for the Nobel Prize Peace Prize next year.

Knesset speaker says 'the world needs more Trumps'

Speaker in the Knesset Amir Ohana, lavished praise on Donalkd Trump.

He told the Israeli Parliament: "You stand before the people of Israel not as another American president, but as a giant of Jewish history.

"You, Donald J Trump are a colossus who will be enshrined in the pantheon of history. Thousands of years for now, the Jewish people will remember you. We are a nation that remembers."

Mr Ohana added: "What the world needs now is more leaders that are resolute, strong, brave and bold. The world needs more Trumps."

​Benjamin Netanyahu will NOT attend Egypt summit

The Israeli Prime Minister's office has confirmed Benjamin Netanyahu will no longer attend the global summit of leaders in Egypt.

Netanyahu's office said he was pulling out due to its proximity to the start of Shemini Atzeret holiday.

Sources told local media Mr Netanyahu also fears that participating in the summit during the holiday would cause a crisis with the ultra-Orthodox parties, after they made it clear behind the scenes that this trip does not justify violating the Sabbath.

The signing of the deal in Egypt is expected to go ahead without Mr Netanyahu in attendance.

President Donald Trump says he is 'open' to co-operate with Iran

President Donald Trump will say in a speech in front of the Israeli Parliament the hand of friendship and cooperation is "always open" to Iran.

Mr Trump was welcomed in Israel on Monday where he was due to address the Knesset before flying on to Egypt for a summit aimed at building conditions for a lasting peace in Gaza.

Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi declined an Egyptian invitation to attend the summit.

Mr Araqchi said in a post on X early on Monday saying: "While favouring diplomatic engagement, neither President Pezeshkian nor I can engage with counterparts who have attacked the Iranian people and continue to threaten and sanction us".

Donald Trump met with standing ovation in Knesset

Donald Trump was met with a standing ovation as he emerged in the Israeli Parliament building.

The US President is expected to say in a speech before Israel’s parliament that countries working together toward peace under the Gaza agreement represents an "incredible triumph for Israel and the world".

In excerpts from the speech, which he is scheduled to deliver on Monday, Trump said Israel "has won all that can be won by force of arms".

He added that it was time to translate what he described as "victories against terrorists" into peace and prosperity for the Middle East.

WATCH: The emotional moment families of Israeli hostages learn their loved ones have been freed 

All 20 remaining hostages back in Israel

The IDF has confirmed all 20 living hostages released by Hamas from Gaza this morning are now back in Israel.

The first group of seven arrived earlier this morning, while the second group of 13 has recently crossed the border.

Palestinian President to join Benjamin Netanyahu in Egypt summit

President of the Palestinian National Authority Mahmoud Abbas is set to join Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at a summit of global leaders in Egypt.

A spokesman from the Egyptian Presidential office said: "Both Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will take part in the peace summit to solidify the agreement to end the war in Gaza and reaffirm their commitment to it."

First bus of Palestinian prisoners arrives in Gaza

The first of 38 buses carrying released Palestinian detainees has crossed into Gaza as part of the agreed deal with Israel.

Israel is set to release 1,700 Palestinians who have been detained in Gaza since October 7, 2023, and 22 Palestinian minors, along with the bodies of 360 militants.

Israeli government spokesperson Bedrosian said the prisoners would be released once the living hostages reach Israeli territory.

Benjamin Netanyahu expected to join other world leaders in Egypt

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to join a summit of global leaders in Egypt.

Local media in Tel Aviv reported Prime Minister Netanyahu spoke by phone with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

Kremlin warns Donald Trump's plan for Palestine is 'too vague'

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said on Monday that US President Donald Trump's plan to settle the Israeli-Palestinian conflict only addresses the Gaza Strip, while it is "too vague" on Palestinian statehood.

Mr Lavrov told reporters President Trump's plan should specify what will happen with the West Bank.

WATCH: Tel Aviv crowds chant 'thank you Trump' as they watch Israeli hostages return

Tel Aviv crowds have been seen chanting "thank you Trump" as the Israeli hostages were returned this morning.

The ceasefire in Gaza took effect on Friday morning after Israel and Hamas agreed to the first phase of the 20-point peace plan brokered by Donald Trump, with the next phases still to be negotiated.

The US President arrived in Israel this morning and is expected to address the country's parliament the Knesset.

IDF confirms all 20 living hostages have been handed over

The Israeli military has confirmed it had received all 20 living hostages released by Hamas from Gaza on Monday.

It is the first phase of a ceasefire agreement with Israel which was set to release hundreds of Palestinians from its jails in exchange.

Donald Trump says Hamas 'will disarm' as he claims 'war is over'

President Donald Trump said Hamas would comply with a plan to disarm, as he arrived at Israel's parliament to deliver an address on Monday.

Speaking to reporters before beginning his speech, Trump replied "yes" when asked whether the war was over.

Donald Trump arrives in Knesset to speak to Israeli parliament

Red Cross en route to collect final 13 living Israeli hostages

The IDF said the Red Cross was en route to receive more of the remaining 13 confirmed living hostages, who were all expected to be released on Monday.

Bodies of some of the 28 dead hostages, and another two whose fate is unknown, will also be released on Monday, along with nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees and convicted prisoners held in Israel.

Israeli media reports the group has been handed over to the Red Cross in southern Gaza and is on its way back to Israel.

President Donald Trump says he would be 'proud' to visit Gaza

Donald Trump told reporters he would be "proud" to vit Gaza but admitted it would take "decades" to rebuilt the heavily destroyed enclave.

The US President said: "I would, I’d be proud to. I see it, I know it so well without visiting. I would, actually. I’d like to do it. I’d like to put my feet on it at least.

"But I think it’s going to be a great miracle over the coming decades [to rebuild it], and you know if you go too fast it’s not going to be good, you have to go at the right speed."

Hamas clashes with rival gangs over weekend 

Hamas militants clashed with a rival clan as the militant group launched an attack on the Jordanian Hospital in southern Gaza City.

Footage of masked gunmen shooting in alleyways in the Sabra neighbourhood circulated on Sunday.

A source told The Telegraph: "The hospital had been used as a refuge by the Dormush family after their homes were destroyed by the Israeli army.

"Hamas reportedly demanded that the family vacate the hospital, but they refused, leading to an exchange of gunfire that resulted in several Hamas casualties, including the son of commander Imad Aqel."

WATCH: Dawn Neesom dismisses claims Britain has 'played a key role' in Gaza ceasefire

Opposition politicians in Israel put differences aside on 'historic day'

Politicians in Israel have come together in a rare moment of unity in the Knesset ahead of Donald Trump's visit.

Evgeny Sova, a lawmaker for the right-wing Yisrael Beytenu party, said: "Nothing is more important than the lives of the hostages, even at the heavy price we are paying…We are paying a price for the negligence of October 7."

Vladimir Beliak, of the centrist Yesh Atid party, told The Times of Israel he hopes there will be an "alternative government in the Gaza Strip, which is not Hamas, which will also open a path to normalisation and, above all, allow us to turn to addressing the internal problems of the State of Israel."

MK Simcha Rothman of the coalition’s hard-right Religious Zionism party, which opposed the deal, says the US president "means what he says" about the war being over.

WATCH: Donald Trump arrives in Israel as hostages set to be released

Donald Trump has stepped off his plane at Ben Gurion Airport on the outskirts of Tel Aviv for the release of hostages from Gaza under the ceasefire deal agreed between Israel and Hamas.

The deadline for Hamas to release all the hostages it is still holding in Gaza is midday local time.

Later on Monday, Mr Trump will travel to Egypt for an international summit aiming to end the war.

IDF confirms second Red Cross vehicle headed into southern Gaza to retrieve hostages

A spokesman for the IDF said: "According to received information, the Red Cross is on its way to another meeting point in the southern sector, where several hostages will be handed over to it."

President Trump to receive Israel’s highest civilian honor

Israeli President Isaac Herzog will tell Donald Trump today that he will be awarded Israel’s highest civilian honour for brokering the ceasefire and hostage-release agreement in Gaza, and for his longstanding support for Israel.

The US President is set to receive the Presidential Medal of Honor "in recognition of his role in achieving a historic agreement advancing the release of the hostages and an end to the war."

President Herzog added, “Through his tireless efforts, President Trump has not only helped bring our loved ones home but has also laid the foundations for a new era in the Middle East built on security, cooperation, and genuine hope for a peaceful future.”

BREAKING: Donald Trump arrives in Tel Aviv

Air Force One has touched down Ben Gurion Airport in Tel Aviv ahead of Donald Trump's meeting with Israeli politicians.

"The war is over, you understand that," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One as he began a flight from Washington to Israel.

Asked about prospects for the region, Trump said, "I think it's going to normalize."

Mother of hostage set to be returned - 'I am full of happiness'

With hundreds of cheering people gathered in Tel Aviv's Hostage Square, Israel's military confirmed it had received the first seven of 20 surviving hostages after their transfer out of Gaza by the Red Cross.

"I am so excited. I am full of happiness. It's hard to imagine how I feel this moment. I didn't sleep all night," said Viki Cohen, mother of hostage Nimrod Cohen, as she travelled to Reim, an Israeli military camp where the hostages will be transferred.

In Gaza, about a dozen masked and black-clad gunmen, apparently members of Hamas' armed wing, arrived at Nasser Hospital where a stage and chairs had been laid out to welcome returning Palestinian prisoners.

US special envoy steps in to cool Bridget Phillipson row - heaps praise on Britain and... Jonathan Powell

US special envoy Steve Witkoff appears to have stepped in to cool a row over Bridget Phillipson's claims about Britain's role in the Gaza peace deal.

In a glowing message, including named praise for Sir Keir Starmer's National Security Advisor at the centre of the China spy row, Mr Witkoff has just said: "I would like to acknowledge the vital role of the United Kingdom in assisting and coordinating efforts that have led us to this historic day in Israel.

"In particular, I want to recognise the incredible input and tireless efforts of National Security Advisor Jonathan Powell."

BREAKING: First seven hostages now back in IDF custody

Reuters now reports that the first seven hostages given to the Red Cross are now back in Israeli military custody.

It's the first time back in their home country's hands for these seven since October 7, 2023.

Israeli hostage at centre of Greta Thunberg mistaken identity row set for release later today

We are still expecting Israeli hostage Evyatar David to be released later this morning.

Mr David was kidnapped from Nova music festival in southern Israel by Hamas militants on October 7.

A video of the 24-year-old in captivity was posted by the terror group which sparked fury across Israel.

In the disturbing footage, the Israeli hostage can be seen in a severely emaciated state and being forced to dig his own grave.

Mr David could BE heard saying “I haven't eaten for days... I barely got drinking water.”

Last week, Swedish activist Greta Thunberg was branded “a liar” and a “joke” after she shared images of a "Palestinian prisoner" - which were actually of Mr David.

READ THE FULL STORY HERE

Hamas now confirms handover - as chilling images of masked militants emerge from Gaza

Hamas has now confirmed the initial handover of seven hostages to the Red Cross - just as images of columns of militants in Gaza are being released.

Robert Jenrick: 'Two years of hell' at an end for freed hostages

Leading the reaction to this morning's news has been Britain's Shadow Justice Secretary Robert Jenrick.

"The freeing of the remaining hostages is the best news," he said. They've endured two years of hell in the barbarous hands of Hamas.

"I'm praying for the families of those hostages that will never return - for whom today will be bittersweet. May their memories be a blessing."

Confirmed: Seven hostages now in Red Cross's hands

Hamas handed over seven Israeli hostages to the International Committee of the Red Cross in Gaza, an official involved in the operation has now said.

In Tel Aviv's Hostage Square, raucous cheers were seen erupting as the handovers were confirmed.

Hamas agreed not to broadcast images of hostage handovers as part of deal

Hamas and Israel have agreed not to broadcast images of any hostage handovers out of respect for detainees' dignity.

In the past, the terror group had scupped ceasefire deals through its "humiliation rituals" towards Israelis.

In February this year, Israel delayed the release of more than 600 Palestinians in return for six living and four dead hostages who had been freed, accusing Hamas of "humiliating" handover ceremonies.

BREAKING: First seven hostages given to Red Cross - reports

The first seven Israeli hostages have been handed over to the Red Cross just now, Israeli media reports.

'Welcome back!' Benjamin Netanyahu's hand-written note to freed hostages - REVEALED

The hand-written notes given to today's freed hostages from Benjamin Netanyahu have been revealed.

The notes read: "On behalf of the entire people of Israel, welcome back! We have been waiting for you. We embrace you. Sara and Benjamin Netanyahu."

Red Cross convoy in place in Gaza City

The first Red Cross convoy is in place in Gaza City, an official involved in the handover proceedings has just told Reuters.

Israeli and Arab media are now reporting between six to nine Israelis are set to be released in the first wave of exchanges.

READ IN FULL: List of 20 Israeli hostages set to be released

• Bar Kupershtein
• Evyatar David
• Yosef-Chaim Ohana
• Segev Kalfon
• Avinatan Or
• Elkana Bohbot
• Maxim Herkin
• Nimrod Cohen
• Matan Zangauker
• David Cunio
• Eitan Horn
• Matan Angrest
• Eitan Mor
• Gali Berman
• Ziv Berman
• Omri Miran
• Alon Ohel
• Guy Gilboa-Dalal
• Rom Braslabski
• Ariel Konio

POLL OF THE DAY: Do you believe Keir Starmer deserves any credit for peace in Gaza?

With a peace deal signing ceremony set for this afternoon in Egypt, GB News is asking members: Do you believe Keir Starmer deserves any credit for peace in Gaza?

GBN MEMBERS CAN VOTE IN OUR POLL OF THE DAY HERE

Keir Starmer absent from gigantic 'thank you' banner on Tel Aviv beach

Despite Bridget Phillipson's claims that Britain played a "key role" in peace proceedings, Sir Keir Starmer is absent from a giant "thank you" banner which has been unfurled on Tel Aviv beach.

The banner features a huge silhouette of Donald Trump, alongside the words "thank you" and "home".

Hostage release just minutes away - Israel confirms Red Cross on its way to transfer point

Israel's military has said the Red Cross is making its way to a meeting point in northern Gaza where it will collect a series of hostages.

We're still expecting a 6am start - so a release could be just minutes away.

Israel shows off its biggest scalps after two years of fighting

Israel has unfurled posters boasting of the country's biggest scalps in its two-year war against Hamas.

Among the mugshots of the dead include Hezbollah boss Hassan Nasrallah (killed in September 2024), Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh (killed in July 2024) and his successor Yahya Sinwar (killed in October 2024).

Red Cross vehicles in position ahead of 6am hostage release

WATCH LIVE: Views from Gaza City and Tel Aviv ahead of hostage release

You can follow our live stream from Gaza City ahead of this morning's hostage release on GBN 2 LIVE HERE.

You can also follow our live strweam from Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, where expectant crowds are gathered, at the video player at the top of this page.

We're expecting the first hostages to be released from 6am - and you can follow our live blog for updates as and when we get them.

Keir Starmer to declare 'phase 2' in Gaza - but Middle East trip overshadowed by minister's 'delusional' peace claims

Sir Keir Starmer is set to announce Britain's role in the second phase of rebuilding Gaza during his trip to the Middle East - which has already been overshadowed by a backlash to his own ministers' claims.

The Prime Minister will be in attendance at the "signing ceremony" in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, where he is expected to call it the "first, crucial phase” to ending the conflict.

Sir Keir will also urge leaders to ensure the second phase is delivered "in full"...

READ THE FULL STORY ON THE PM IN THE MIDDLE EAST HERE

IDF declares victory ahead of 'Operation Returning Home'

Last night, Israel's Chief of the General Staff Eyal Zamir released the following statement ahead of Monday's hostage release.

"The IDF is now launching Operation 'Returning Home' to return our hostages from Hamas captivity.

"In a few hours we will all be reunited - one people, embraced and united.

"The military pressure we applied over the past two years, together with the complementary diplomatic measures, constitute a victory over Hamas.

"We will continue to act in order to shape a security reality that ensures the Gaza Strip no longer poses a threat to the State of Israel and its civilians."

What are we expecting on Monday morning?

An Israeli military official has outlined the rough plan of today's transfer of hostages - set to begin at around 6am BST on Monday morning.

They revealed that the process will follow the same procedure as a similar operation earlier this year, which went as follows:

1. Hostages are transferred by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to a special IDF squad;
2. The IDF squad will then bring them to the Re'im military base in southern Israel;
3. Family members will be waiting for the hostages at reception points;
4. They will then travel with them to hospitals by helicopter, where they will receive further treatment.

"In case of urgent medical needs, the evacuation will be carried out directly to the hospital without stopping at the [reception] compound," the official told the BBC.