WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump welcomed 26 former Israeli hostages at the White House, including 17 released last month from Gaza, and gave each a presidential challenge coin as a mark of honor.
Mr. Trump credited his U.S-led 20-point peace plan, accepted by Hamas, for helping to end the crisis triggered by the October 7, 2023 attacks.
He singled out Matan Angrest, an IDF soldier who endured torture in captivity, calling him “a living testimony to the toughness, heart and faith of the Jewish people.” Moneycontrol Twins Gali Berman and Ziv Berman gifted Trump a charred family mezuzah recovered from their home as a token of gratitude.
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and other officials described the ceremony as “solemn yet inspirational,” and pointed to it as proof of Trump’s bold leadership in securing the releases.
But the event came with a reminder of unfinished business: three hostages’ bodies still remain in Gaza, according to the freed captives and their families.
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