Peace in the Middle East

President Trump declared “the end” of the Gaza war on Monday as the last 20 living Israeli hostages were exchanged for Palestinian prisoners.

How’d the swap go?
Video footage captured joy and relief in Israel and Gaza as loved ones returned home (watch here and here).

The Red Cross delivered the Hamas-held hostages to their families after 738 days in captivity. The remains of four hostages were also returned, but at least 20 bodies haven’t been. Hamas says finding them will be challenging; an international task force will aid the search.

Meanwhile, buses delivered 1,966 Palestinian prisoners to Gaza and the West Bank. About 250 were serving life sentences for murder or terrorist attacks, and ~1,700 were detainees accused of wartime crimes. 

How is President Trump involved?
For the official signing of the peace deal he brokered, Trump took a <17-hour trip to the Middle East, where he:

• Met with hostages’ families
• Addressed the Israeli parliament, announcing “the historic dawn of a new Middle East”
• Received the Order of the Nile in Egypt (its highest civilian honor) for his peace efforts
• Assembled 35 Middle Eastern and European leaders—not including Israel or Hamas—for long-term peace talks

What’s next?
The skies are quiet in Gaza, and Israel has withdrawn to ~50% control of the Strip. Palestinians are returning to war-ravaged neighborhoods while aid scales up. 

A multinational force of about 200 troops (none American) overseen by the Pentagon will monitor the ceasefire, while a “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump will oversee rebuilding efforts.

Hamas’ disarmament and the long-term governing role of the Palestinian Authority are the critical issues still to be resolved by regional negotiators.

(We’re covering this story at a 7th-grade reading level with biblical reflection and action steps in Decaf: The Pour Over for Families. Sign up free to get it in your inbox tomorrow!)

PRAY WITH US
The Bible calls us to “rejoice with those who rejoice; weep with those who weep” (Romans 12:15, CSB). As we mourn the loss of life over the last two years, we also celebrate answered prayers for (partial) peace and hostages’ homecoming. 

Heavenly Father, You have guided and provided through the darkest valley. Heal the brokenhearted. Help us to always remember Your goodness and mercy so our lives reflect our delight in You, our ever-present Father and Good Shepherd.