Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has canceled his participation in a peace summit in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, due to its proximity to the Jewish holidays of Shemini Atzeret and Simchat Torah, it was announced between 9:35 AM and 10:35 AM UTC on October 13th, 2025. Prime Minister Netanyahu thanked U.S. President Donald Trump for the invitation and for his efforts to expand the peace circle, according to the Prime Minister's Office. Earlier, President Trump had mediated discussions for Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to attend the summit. A dramatic meeting last Wednesday between President Trump's envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner and Hamas leaders, headed by Khalil al-Hayya, helped seal the Gaza peace deal, according to a scoop reported by Barak Ravid on Axios within the reporting window. This development occurred amidst the return of thirteen hostages to Israeli territory between 7:06 AM and 10:05 AM UTC, as confirmed by joint IDF and Shin Bet notices. Earlier in the day, President Trump declared "The war is over" while speaking at the Knesset in Jerusalem. The summit's attendance was also questioned due to potential fear of encountering Abu Mazen or Arab leaders making it clear they would not sit with Netanyahu, according to Amichai Stein. Separately, there was commentary on the length of Amir Ohana's address, with a source noting Trump's tight schedule and that "they're already behind."
