From the Liveblog of
Tuesday, January 27, 2026
Witkoff hails Gvili’s return: ‘It’s a new day in the Middle East’
Add ToI as a Preferred Source on GoogleLazar Berman is The Times of Israel's diplomatic reporter
US special envoy Steve Witkoff calls the return of the remains of the final hostage held in Gaza, Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, “a historic day.”
“A monumental, historic feat that few thought was possible,” writes Witkoff on X. “It’s thanks to the hard work of so many, but especially [US President Donald Trump], who works tirelessly for peace.”
He says that Gvili’s return “closes a painful chapter for many, and paves the way for a new future that can be defined by peace, not war, and prosperity, not destruction.”
“It’s a new day in the Middle East, and President Trump, myself, and the entire team are committed to sustained peace and prosperity for all in the region,” writes Witkoff.
Yesterday was a historic day.
The last remaining hostage in Gaza, Officer Ran Gvili, has been returned home to his family in Israel. He went out on October 7 to save lives, and yesterday he returned to rest in peace in Israel.
Now, ALL 20 living hostages and all 28 deceased…
— Special Envoy Steve Witkoff (@SEPeaceMissions) January 27, 2026
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