The President sent a letter to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum on the second anniversary of the October 7th massacre, expressing gratitude for their appeal to the Norwegian Nobel Committee.
Trump wrote, “Since the terrible events of October 7, 2023, which witnessed families being torn apart, children separated from their parents, and innocent individuals shot, killed, and raped, I have committed myself to bringing all hostages back home and ensuring the complete eradication of Hamas to prevent such atrocities from ever recurring. These indescribable scenes are etched into our memories, and we will never forget them.”
“My administration has been profoundly moved by how, despite the immense pain and suffering of two years spent without knowing the whereabouts of your loved ones, you have persistently shared their stories and advocated for them,” he added.
The Hostages and Missing Families Forum sent a letter to the Nobel Committee on Monday, stating that after two years of hardship, they believed Trump’s endeavors had led to a turning point. The organization further noted the number of hostages freed since Trump’s inauguration, which reunited some families with their loved ones and provided others with “the dignity of burial and closure.”
The forum expressed, “President Trump’s commitment to achieving peace accomplished what many deemed unachievable. From the start of his presidency, he offered us hope during our most difficult periods. We are convinced that he will persist until every hostage is returned, the conflict concludes, and peace and prosperity are re-established for the people of the Middle East.”
The forum further stated, “Over the last year, no leader or entity has contributed more to global peace than President Trump. While numerous individuals have spoken persuasively about peace, he has brought it to fruition. While others have made hollow pledges, he has produced concrete outcomes that have preserved countless lives.”
It remains uncertain if Trump will be awarded the prize, but this does not imply he has abandoned his pursuit of peace and an end to the conflict.
Over the weekend, Trump urged negotiators in the indirect discussions to “expedite the process,” while indicating he considered Hamas’ response positive and calling for Israel to “immediately cease the bombing of Gaza.”
The Israeli Prime Minister accepted the 20-point plan during his visit to the U.S. last month. Although Hamas expressed readiness to release the hostages, it did not provide a conclusive response regarding Trump’s proposal.
The Secretary of State praised Trump’s agreement as “a historic chance to conclude this difficult period and establish a basis for enduring peace and security for everyone.”
Senior negotiators representing Israel and Hamas met in Egypt on Tuesday, continuing discussions concerning Trump’s peace initiative. An Egyptian official familiar with the talks informed The Associated Press that Hamas and Israel had reached an agreement on most initial phase conditions, including the release of hostages and the implementation of a ceasefire.
Caitlin McFall of Digital contributed to this report.