Trump Hosts Israeli Ex-Hostages, Pledges to Secure Remaining Captives

In a powerful show of solidarity, U.S. President Donald Trump hosted a delegation of former Israeli hostages and their families at the White House just one day after Israel’s targeted strike on Hamas leaders in Doha, Qatar.

Among those in attendance were former captives Ohad and Raz Ben Ami, along with the siblings of Evyatar David, who remains in captivity. The meeting was joined by senior U.S. officials including Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.

“This meeting was about more than just compassion it was about commitment,” Trump stated. “We are fully dedicated to securing the release of all 48 Israeli hostages still held in Gaza and ending this war with strength and justice.”

The gathering highlighted America’s close coordination with Israel in pressuring Hamas and its regional enablers, following the high-profile Israeli operation in Qatar targeting Hamas’s overseas leadership. That strike sent a clear message: terror leaders will find no sanctuary.

Earlier this week, Trump signaled optimism about a breakthrough, suggesting that a hostage deal could be “very soon.” The current U.S.-backed proposal aims to end the war through phased exchanges and long-term demilitarization of Gaza terms closely aligned with Israel’s stated war objectives.

Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar reiterated that Jerusalem is prepared to support the truce plan as long as it follows the Cabinet’s five key principles: return of all hostages, full disarmament of Hamas, Israeli security control in Gaza, the creation of an alternative local civilian administration, and an end to the terror group’s military infrastructure.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized these goals in his August 14 address, making it clear that any ceasefire must secure Israel’s long-term security interests not just a temporary pause in violence.

The White House meeting with the former hostages was both a morale boost and a strategic signal. It reinforced U.S. support for Israel’s right to self-defense while showing that the plight of the captives remains front and center in diplomatic efforts.

Israel is not alone in this fight. As hostages remain in terrorist hands, the world must rally behind justice, not appeasement. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed and stand with Israel.