As hostages return, Tel Aviv rally sends clear message: Thanks to Trump

Emotions ran high Saturday night at a massive rally in Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, where families and supporters gathered to celebrate the breakthrough ceasefire deal that will see the return of dozens of hostages from Gaza.

One line brought the crowd to its feet:

“Miracles can happen — the hostages are coming home.”

The words came from Steven Witkoff, special envoy to the peace negotiations, who addressed the crowd with visible emotion. As he praised the resilience of the Israeli people and the “unwavering efforts” behind the scenes, he singled out one name that drew thunderous applause: Donald J. Trump.

“President Trump refused to accept that peace in the Middle East was out of reach,” Witkoff said. “He pushed when others stalled. He believed when others gave up.”

The moment became a striking contrast to the reaction that followed at the mention of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu — which prompted loud boos and whistles from parts of the crowd. The atmosphere was clear: while many in Israel remain grateful for international pressure that led to the ceasefire and hostage release, frustration with the domestic leadership lingers.

Kushner: “Let’s Make the Region Peaceful”

Jared Kushner, former White House advisor and a key figure in both the Abraham Accords and the new ceasefire initiative, also addressed the rally via video message. He called for unity and praised the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as “amazing soldiers” who acted with both strength and restraint.

“Let’s make Israel, the region, and the world peaceful,” Kushner urged. “Peace is not impossible — it is a choice. And tonight, we’re seeing the result of choosing hope over hatred.”

The rally took place just hours before the first wave of hostages was expected to return. Dozens of yellow ribbons, candles, and handwritten notes covered the square — a symbol of collective grief, relief, and cautious optimism.

Organizers of the rally emphasized that this moment was not about politics but about lives saved and futures restored. Still, the political undertones were undeniable. The crowd’s warm embrace of American leadership, particularly Trump’s, stood in contrast to its palpable disillusionment with Israel’s own handling of the war.

As night fell over Tel Aviv, the atmosphere remained electric — part celebration, part catharsis. And above all, a message that echoed beyond the square:
Peace may be fragile. But tonight, it feels possible.