Freed Hamas hostages tell Trump he gave them hope: ‘sent by God’

Seven hostages who were freed from Gaza visited President Donald Trump in the Oval Office to express their gratitude for his re-election, which they believed played a crucial role in securing their release from Hamas captivity. The emotional meeting, which took place earlier this week, allowed the hostages to share their harrowing stories of abduction, abuse, and captivity with the President.

One of the freed hostages, Omer Shem Tov, described Trump as being “sent by God” to help rescue them. The hostages expressed how they had been uplifted and filled with hope upon hearing about Trump’s election, believing that he would be the one to facilitate their rescue.

U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, who was present at the press event, emphasized the Trump administration’s commitment to securing the release of more hostages. Reports surfaced this week revealing that the administration has initiated direct negotiations with Hamas, a move that has reportedly caused some tension with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Details of the negotiations remain vague, but it was reported that the Trump team had proposed a 60-day ceasefire and the release of an additional 10 hostages. However, the specifics of who would be included in the next release are still unclear, as there are 25 hostages who are believed to be alive, including one American hostage, Edan Alexander, who is a top priority for the administration due to his injuries.

Despite Trump’s warnings on social media urging Hamas to release all hostages immediately, the terrorist group has insisted on only releasing more hostages if a second phase in the ceasefire agreement is agreed upon. Witkoff expressed frustration with Hamas’s lack of transparency and urged them to be forthright in their negotiations.

The meeting with the freed hostages served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing plight of those still held captive by Hamas. With 59 hostages still in captivity, including those believed to have been killed during the 2023 attacks, the Trump administration remains steadfast in its efforts to secure their release and bring them back home to their loved ones. The bravery and resilience of the freed hostages serve as a testament to the power of hope and the unwavering commitment to securing the freedom of those still held captive.