
Washington D.C. – Eitan Mor, an Israeli national recently released from Hamas captivity in Gaza, visited the White House today to personally thank President Donald Trump for his role in securing the freedom of hostages. Mor's visit comes 39 days after his release, marking a significant moment in the ongoing efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Mor was among 20 Israeli hostages freed in October 2025 as part of a ceasefire agreement brokered by the Trump administration. Some of these captives had endured "738 endless days" in Gaza, as stated by Mor's father, Tzvika Mor, who expressed profound gratitude for President Trump's leadership. The comprehensive peace plan included a ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and a commitment to the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip.
During his captivity, Eitan Mor survived harsh conditions, including time spent in Gaza's extensive tunnel networks. He reportedly lost 15 kilograms and learned fluent Arabic with a distinct Gazan accent, a skill that surprised a taxi driver upon his return. His father recounted how Eitan "started writing his memories in Arabic, with a fully fluent Gazan-Palestinian accent."
President Trump has been lauded for spearheading the "historic ceasefire deal," which saw the implementation of its first phase in October 2025. The agreement also involved Israel releasing 250 Palestinian prisoners and over 1,700 other Palestinians detained during two years of military operations in Gaza. Trump, referred to by some as "Trump the Peace President," has emphasized the deal as a major step towards ending the conflict.
Mor plans to present President Trump with a special dreidel, symbolizing "light over darkness," during his visit. The gesture highlights the personal impact of the peace efforts on the freed hostages and their families. The broader peace plan aims for the redevelopment of Gaza and a pathway towards Palestinian self-determination, though challenges remain regarding the disarmament of Hamas and future governance.