Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday praised President Donald Trump as the “greatest friend” Israel has ever had, as Hamas released the last 20 living hostages under the new peace deal.

“No American president has ever done more for Israel,” Netanyahu said. “It ain’t even close.”

He thanked Trump for “standing up for Israel” at the United Nations, recognizing Israel’s rights in the West Bank — or the Judea and Samaria  — and withdrawing from the “disastrous” Iran nuclear deal.

“Thank you for supporting Operation Rising Lion and for your bold decision to launch Operation Midnight Hammer,” Netanyahu said, referring to the June strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites. “Boy, you got to hear this — this is the most fitting name ever given to a military operation, because a little after midnight, you really hammered them.”

Under the agreement, Israel halted military operations and withdrew to pre-defined lines while preparations began for a complete hostage exchange. Hamas members who renounce violence will be granted amnesty or safe passage, while those who continue resistance will be excluded from Gaza’s future governance.

Humanitarian aid — including critical supplies, infrastructure repair, and medical support — will flow freely into Gaza under the supervision of the United Nations, the Red Crescent, and other neutral organizations.

“No American president has ever done more for Israel,” Netanyahu said. “It ain’t even close.” ((Photo by Kenny Holston – Pool/Getty Images))

Netanyahu praised Trump as Israel’s “greatest friend” in Knesset speech. (Evan Vucci/Pool via Reuters)

Gaza’s governance will transition to a technocratic Palestinian committee overseen by an international “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump, alongside former British Prime Minister Tony Blair and other global leaders. This body will manage Gaza’s redevelopment until a reformed Palestinian Authority is prepared to take control.

A Trump-led economic development plan will seek to attract international investment and transform Gaza into a “thriving modern miracle city,” supported by a special economic zone with preferential trade terms. The plan promises that no residents will be forced to leave Gaza, emphasizing voluntary participation in rebuilding efforts.

Security arrangements include the creation of a U.S.-led International Stabilization Force (ISF) to train Palestinian police, secure borders, and oversee disarmament. Israel will not occupy or annex Gaza but will gradually withdraw as security milestones are met. Regional partners, including Egypt and Jordan, will help ensure compliance and prevent the resurgence of militant threats.