Trump Seeks Attendance at Gaza Signing Ceremony in Egypt

President Donald Trump announced Thursday he plans to visit Egypt for a ceremony marking the Gaza ceasefire agreement, following an invitation from Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The trip would highlight Egypt's central role in brokering the deal that aims to end over 15 months of conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Speaking during a government meeting, Trump said he would "try to make the visit" and that his team was working out the timing. US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed the plan, saying Trump is "very excited to go to Egypt" and expects to travel there next week.

Trump also provided details about the agreement's implementation, stating that Israeli hostages held in Gaza would be released "Monday or Tuesday." He described the deal as having "ended the Gaza war," though the agreement is structured in phases and its long-term success remains to be tested.

Egypt has positioned itself as a key mediator throughout the conflict, hosting the negotiations that led to this ceasefire framework. The country's geographic location bordering Gaza and its historical role in Middle East diplomacy made it a natural venue for these talks.

The potential presidential visit underscores the diplomatic significance of the moment. For Trump, attending the ceremony would mark an early foreign policy achievement in his new term. For Egypt, hosting such an event reinforces its status as a regional power broker and could strengthen ties with the new US administration.

The ceasefire represents the most substantial pause in fighting since the conflict began in October 2023. But the real test will be whether both sides can maintain the agreement through its multiple phases and address the underlying issues that have fueled decades of conflict in the region.