Former President Joe Biden on Monday released an emotional statement responding to the latest breakthrough in the Middle East, following the release of the final group of Israeli hostages held in Gaza and the announcement of a renewed ceasefire agreement. The deal, which marks a significant moment after months of intense violence, has been met with cautious optimism around the world.
Speaking through a message posted on X, Biden said he felt “deep relief” that the last 20 surviving hostages were finally able to return home to their families after enduring what he described as “unimaginable hell.” The hostages, many of whom had been held for months in undisclosed locations by Hamas, were freed as part of a deal facilitated by several international mediators.
“I am deeply grateful and relieved that this day has come — for the last living 20 hostages who have been through unimaginable hell and are finally reunited with their families and loved ones, and for the civilians in Gaza who have experienced immeasurable loss and will finally get the chance to rebuild their lives,” Biden wrote.
Biden also acknowledged the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza, many of whom have been displaced by months of Israeli strikes in response to Hamas attacks. He noted that the ceasefire offers “a narrow but necessary opportunity” for humanitarian aid to reach those in desperate need.
In an unexpected move that drew attention from political observers, Biden went on to praise President Donald Trump, who played a role in finalizing the ceasefire agreement alongside foreign leaders from Egypt and Qatar.
“The road to this deal was not easy,” Biden said. “My administration worked relentlessly to bring hostages home, get relief to Palestinian civilians, and end the war. I commend President Trump and his team for their work to get a renewed ceasefire deal over the finish line.”
The statement marked one of the rare occasions in recent years where Biden publicly credited Trump, a figure he has frequently clashed with both politically and personally. Analysts say Biden’s gesture may signal a broader attempt to project unity on an international crisis that has deeply divided U.S. voters.
Biden closed his message by calling the ceasefire “a step toward a future that must belong to peace, not war.” He said long-term stability in the Middle East would only be possible if both Israelis and Palestinians are guaranteed security and dignity.
“Now, with the backing of the United States and the world, the Middle East is on a path to peace that I hope endures — a future for Israelis and Palestinians alike with equal measures of peace, dignity, and safety,” he wrote.
While celebrations erupted across parts of Israel as families were reunited with loved ones, the situation in Gaza remains fragile. Aid organizations have warned that a return to violence could undo any progress if diplomatic momentum is not sustained. The international community is now turning its attention to whether this ceasefire can evolve into broader negotiations — perhaps even reigniting stalled talks about a long-term political solution.