In the Egyptian city of Sharm el-Sheikh, a critical diplomatic step was taken aimed at ending the two-year war in Gaza. At the “Peace Summit,” attended by 20 leaders—including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, U.S. President Donald Trump, Egyptian President Abdulfettah el-Sisi, and the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani—the “Declaration of Intent” and the “Sharm el-Sheikh Agreement” aimed at achieving peace in Gaza were signed. This declaration, signed by Turkey, the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar as guarantors of the Gaza agreement, was regarded as a historic turning point toward establishing lasting peace in the region.
Historical Assessments and Words of Thanks from the Leaders
Speaking after the signing ceremony, U.S. President Trump emphasized the importance of the summit, saying, “It took 3,000 years to get to this point—can you believe it? But this (agreement) will last; it will continue… Today is an incredible day not just for the Middle East, but for the entire world.” Trump noted that peace had been achieved in the Middle East and that the war in Gaza had ended, stating, “Reconstruction is beginning in Gaza.”
The U.S. President expressed his gratitude to the leaders who contributed to the peace process. Addressing President Erdoğan, he said, “His army is much stronger than he lets on… He’s a tough guy, but he’s my friend, and he’s always been by my side when I needed him. That’s why I want to thank President Erdoğan.” Trump also highlighted the key roles played by Egypt and Qatar in the process, expressing his belief that certain Arab countries, in particular, would make significant contributions to Gaza’s reconstruction.
Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange Process Begins
One of the summit’s concrete outcomes was the prisoner exchange initiated as part of the ceasefire agreement. According to a report by the official Palestinian news agency WAFA, a total of 250 Palestinian prisoners were released from Ketziot Prison in southern Israel and Ofer Prison near Ramallah. Among those released were individuals serving life sentences and long-term prison terms, as well as those detained from the Gaza Strip since October 2023.
It was reported that the Palestinians were transported from Ketziot Prison to Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip by bus and ambulance, where they were joyfully welcomed by large crowds. Meanwhile, Hamas also released all surviving Israeli captives by handing over 20 individuals to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in accordance with the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement. These developments stand out as significant steps toward de-escalating tensions and improving the humanitarian situation in the region following prolonged hostilities. The Sharm el-Sheikh Summit and the signed agreements are seen as heralding a new beginning for Gaza.
