A trio of Trump diplomats celebrated a significant peace agreement related to Gaza on Saturday evening in Tel Aviv’s Hostage Square, where they awaited the release of Israeli hostages.
East Envoy Steve Witkoff, along with Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner—who has played a pivotal role in the ongoing peace discussions—addressed a large gathering of supporters brandishing U.S. and Israeli flags along with signs featuring images of the hostages held by Hamas.
“If all goes well, we’ve taken the first step. It’s been tough. One day, we’ll look back and it will make us laugh, maybe cry too. It was quite the journey,” Jared Kushner remarked, previously an advisor to President Trump.
Kushner expressed emotional reflections about the shocking events of October 7, saying, “That day was devastating for me. The barbaric acts we witnessed were heartbreaking, and my heart hasn’t been whole since.” He fought back tears as he spoke.
“We’re not here to celebrate today. The real celebration will be on Monday,” he added, referring to the deadline for the hostages’ release.
Currently, 48 hostages remain in Gaza, with 20 thought to be alive.
As the first phase of a cease-fire is underway and following an emotional address from the Middle East envoy to an enthusiastic audience, Kushner praised Steve Witkoff, mentioning his humorous approach. “Working closely with Steve over the past ten months has been an honor. He managed to keep his speech free of four-letter words; perhaps he’s run out of them during negotiations,” Kushner joked.
Ivanka Trump also spoke to the crowd, which erupted in chants of “Thank you, Trump.” She emphasized, “Tonight, we gather in Tel Aviv to honor the resilience of all families who are waiting and hoping.” She relayed a message from the President: “I see you, I hear you, and I will always be with you.”
Witkoff concluded the speeches with a heartfelt note, stating, “Jews, Christians, Muslims, and individuals from every corner of the globe stand united here tonight in a shared prayer for peace.” With the peace agreement set to conclude the conflict in Gaza, President Trump has announced plans to visit Israel on Monday to speak to Congress before heading to Egypt for the formal signing of the 20-point plan.
