US President Donald Trump departed Sunday on a high-stakes peace trip to Israel and Egypt, declaring the "war is over" in Gaza despite uncertainty about what will follow a ceasefire and hostage deal with Hamas.

Trump's lightning visit is designed to celebrate his role in brokering last week's ceasefire and hostage release deal -- but it comes at a precarious time as Israel and Hamas negotiate what comes next.

The 79-year-old president is due to arrive in Israel shortly after the expected release of the hostages by Hamas. He will address parliament before heading to Egypt to host a major peace summit.

"The war is over. Okay? You understand that?" Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One when asked if he was confident that the conflict between Israel and Palestinian militant group Hamas

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