Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Egypt on Monday to attend the Gaza Peace Summit. The event was held under the joint leadership of US President Donald Trump and Egypt’s President. Shehbaz’s delegation includes Deputy PM Ishaq Dar and Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. The summit aims to end the prolonged Gaza conflict and promote lasting peace.
More than 20 world leaders, including Turkey’s Erdoğan and Germany’s Chancellor, gathered in Cairo for the signing ceremony. However, Hamas and Iran declined to attend, expressing concerns about the peace terms and mediator roles. Despite their absence, the summit marks a major diplomatic step toward resolving the crisis.
Read more: PM to attend Trump co-hosted Gaza peace summit in Egypt
President Trump announced the end of the Gaza war and a permanent ceasefire agreement. He also revealed plans to form a Gaza Peace Council to ensure the ceasefire’s implementation and help with reconstruction efforts. This council will play a crucial role in maintaining stability in the region.
As part of the agreement, an international prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas began. The International Committee of the Red Cross is supervising the swap of hostages and Palestinian detainees. Hamas released 20 Israeli captives, including twins, while Israel plans to free 1,718 Palestinians, with some changes to the original list.
Read more: Shehbaz Sharif Heads to Egypt for Gaza Ceasefire Talks
Israeli officials confirmed the safe return of all 20 Israeli captives, describing the day as emotional and hopeful. Prime Minister Netanyahu called it a moment of unity and the start of healing. The summit offers a hopeful path forward for peace and rebuilding in Gaza after months of conflict.