Sigh of relief to Israeli families as Hamas hands over all living hostages to Israel as Trump declares ‘Gaza war over’
The Israeli military said it had received all hostages confirmed to be alive after their transfer from Gaza by the Red Cross, prompting cheering, hugging and weeping among thousands waiting at “Hostage Square” in Tel Aviv.
End of two years of war doesn’t guarantee immediate rebound in Israel’s economy
At 3.25 to the dollar, the shekel has appreciated nearly 20 per cent against the US currency since October 2023, aided by Bank of Israel stabilisation measures. The Tel Aviv Stock Exchange’s benchmark index is up nearly 300 per cent, compared to 56 per cent for the S&P 500. Israel has also maintained access to international debt markets, raising a record $8 billion in March 2024 and $5 billion in February 2025.
Palestinians move corpses, shielding them from path of war as Gaza death toll crosses 40,000
Israel began striking Gaza after Hamas-led militants stormed across the Israeli border on October 7, killing about 1,200 people and taking some 250 others hostage. Israel seeks Hamas’ destruction and claims it confines its attacks to militants. It blames Hamas for civilian deaths, saying the militants operate from residential neighbourhoods laced with tunnels.
