The families of Israeli hostages made a surprise appearance at Donald Trump's inauguration event. They stood in a line wearing yellow scarves and holding photos of their family members kidnapped by Hamas.
Several families have lost children and loved ones. They are here because they are part of an effort to retrieve their bodies so they can be buried in a proper way. Others have children who are still in captivity.
The family members then walked onto the stage and took turns shaking hands with the newly sworn-in president.
Trump said that he would be signing an executive order later on Monday regarding the "J6 hostages," referring to those convicted of or charged with crimes related to the January 6 Capitol riot four years ago.
Last week, Trump took credit for the ceasefire deal, which began 11:15 a.m. local time. He wrote on Truth Social that he is thrilled American and Israeli hostages will be returning home to be reunited with their families and loved ones.
Three Israeli hostages and 90 Palestinian prisoners were released in the first phase while dozens more are set to be released in the next six weeks.
9 Comments
Karamba
This is a powerful moment of unity and hope. These families are showing incredible strength and courage.
Matzomaster
We need to stand up to Trump and his hateful rhetoric.
Rotfront
This is not who we are as Americans. We are better than this.
Matzomaster
We need to elect leaders who will actually care about the American people.
Karamba
I am ashamed to be an American today.
Leonardo
Shame on these families for allowing themselves to be used as props by Trump. They should be focusing on getting their loved ones back, not participating in this political charade.
Raphael
This is just another example of how Trump is dividing our country. He is pitting Americans against each other and using this tragedy to further that divide.
Michelangelo
This is a sign that America is finally on the right track.
Stan Marsh
Thank you, President Trump, for making America great again.