World awaits momentous homecoming for Israel's 48 hostages

HAMAS is set to hand over 48 Israeli hostages today as part of Donald Trump's historic Gaza peace plan.

- By Giles Sheldrick and Katie Harris

The momentous homecoming of captives taken during the October 7 massacre marks the beginning of the end of a two-year war and a potential turning point in the Middle East.

Triumphant US President Trump, who brokered the fragile peace pact, is set to receive a hero's welcome when he touches down to formally sign the Gaza Peace Plan at a summit in Egypt today.

The President is set to visit Israel first in the morning, where he is likely to meet the hostages' families and possibly some of the released hostages, according to the White House. He will then address the Knesset parliament of Israel, before flying to Egypt at around lunchtime.

Just before boarding Air Force One last night, an upbeat Mr Trump said: "Everybody is very excited about this moment in time." Referring to both Arab states and Israel, he said: "Everyone is cheering and that's not happened before.

"It's an honour to be involved. We are going to have an amazing time."