Hostages Released, Trump In The Middle East, Shutdown Layoffs
Oct 13, 2025•12 min
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Summary
Phase one of the Gaza ceasefire is underway, marked by the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian detainees. President Trump, widely credited for brokering the deal, is in Israel, declaring the war over and receiving a rousing welcome before heading to Egypt for a formal signing. Meanwhile, the U.S. government shutdown continues into its second week, leading to federal layoffs and potential missed paychecks for military service members, sparking political blame and debate over funding.Episode description
Phase one of the Gaza ceasefire is underway as Hamas releases Israeli hostages and thousands of Palestinians held by Israel are being reunited with their families. President Trump addresses Israel's parliament ahead of his trip to Egypt to sign the deal he brokered. And the government shutdown enters its second week, with multiple agencies sending layoff notices and growing pressure on the military payroll.
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Today’s episode of Up First was edited by Kate Bartlett, Vincent Ni, Jason Breslow, Mohamad ElBardicy and Martha Ann Overland.
It was produced by Ziad Buchh, Nia Dumas and Christopher Thomas
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