The Jewish Community Center held a tree planting ceremony to mark the recent peace agreement in the region, with remarks delivered by Daniel E. Mangis, Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Cyprus. The event aimed to honor efforts toward peace following the October 7, 2023 attacks, during which more than 1,200 people, including 46 Americans, were killed and 254 hostages were taken.
Mangis stated: "Today, we gather to honor the promise of peace. These trees to be planted represent the enduring hope and strength that peace promises – a result forged through courage, determination, and the unwavering commitment to human dignity."
He referenced the October 13 peace agreement as pivotal in ending over two years of conflict that began after the attacks by Hamas. "We salute the October 13 peace agreement that has brought us back from the brink of a terrifying abyss created by the horrific attacks of October 7, 2023," Mangis said.
According to Mangis, ongoing negotiations led to the release of all remaining hostages: "After more than two years of intense fighting since that brutal day, the first phase of peace negotiations resulted in the return of the final 48 hostages, including 20 who against all odds survived their nightmare to return to their families and friends."
He acknowledged U.S. involvement under President Donald Trump’s leadership: "The United States is proud, through the unwavering leadership and skillful negotiations of President Donald Trump, to help bring about the release of the hostages, end the devastating conflict in Gaza, and lay the foundation for sustainable peace in the region." Secretary of State Marco Rubio described this as “not just a milestone but the beginning of a transformative process to ensure a better future for Gaza, lasting security for Israel, and stability for the region.”
Mangis highlighted international cooperation: "This truly historic peace deal is also bringing together international partners, including Cyprus... We thank the Republic of Cyprus for its vital role in advancing regional dialogue and especially getting humanitarian aid to Gaza." He praised President Christodoulides’ Amalthea Plan for expediting aid deliveries.
Additionally, he noted support from global institutions: “We also celebrate the UN Security Council’s approval of President Trump’s 20-point peace plan on Thursday,” which he said would provide “the path toward a shared future of peace.”
Concluding his remarks at the ceremony, Mangis said: "Planting trees is an especially appropriate act to honor peace. As these trees take root... they will endure as a living testament to... diplomacy... resilience... and... vision of a world where peace and freedom can flourish."