Netanyahu, Trump Celebrate "Historic" Hostage Deal

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and US President Trump had a phone conversation after the historic agreement on the release of hostages with Hamas was announced. According to the Israeli Prime Minister's Office, the conversation was "very emotional and warm." The two leaders congratulated each other "on the occasion of the historic achievement - the signing of the agreement on the release of all hostages." Netanyahu thanked the US President for his efforts, and the head of the White House, in turn, highly praised the Prime Minister's "decisive leadership and actions taken."

During the conversation, Netanyahu invited Trump to address the Knesset (the Israeli parliament), and the parties agreed to continue close cooperation.

In a separate statement, Netanyahu emphasized: "With the approval of the first phase of the plan, all our hostages will return home." He described the agreement as a "diplomatic success and a national and moral victory for Israel." "From the very beginning, I have clearly stated: we will not rest until all our hostages have returned and all our goals have been achieved," he recalled, adding that this crucial turning point was made possible "thanks to unwavering determination, powerful military actions, and the enormous efforts of our great friend and ally, President Trump."

According to CNN, the White House expects the hostage release to begin on Monday, October 13, although the timeline could change. According to the official, Israel must withdraw its troops within 24 hours, after which a 72-hour countdown for the hostage exchange will begin.

Israel is preparing for a possible visit by the US President early next week, who has not ruled out that he could travel to the Middle East on Sunday.