Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan, bringing cautious optimism for an end to the war. The deal was announced by US President Donald Trump on Thursday and has been met with celebrations in both Gaza and Israel.
The initial phase focuses on the release of all remaining hostages held in Gaza. This will happen in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. It also includes an Israeli military withdrawal to an agreed-upon point.
The agreement comes after two years of intense fighting in which more than 67,000 Palestinians and 1,200 Israelis were killed.
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Implementation and international reaction
The Israeli security cabinet is set to meet to ratify the deal. The ceasefire will only officially begin after this approval. An Israeli official stated that they expect the release of 20 living hostages by Sunday or Monday.
There are believed to be 48 hostages still in Gaza. Of these, only 20 are thought to be alive. The Israeli military has begun operational preparations. This includes adjusting their deployment lines in Gaza as part of the Gaza ceasefire deal.
World leaders have welcomed the news. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called it a “historic moment”. Egypt was a key mediator in the talks held in Sharm El-Sheikh. The UK, France, and other European nations expressed relief and hope. They called for the swift implementation of the agreement’s terms. The World Health Organisation also stated it is ready to increase health assistance in Gaza.
Despite the positive step, significant challenges remain. Future phases of the peace plan must address difficult issues. These include Hamas’s disarmament and the long-term governance of Gaza. Much of the territory’s infrastructure lies in ruins. For now, the focus remains on the immediate relief the Gaza ceasefire brings. It stops the bloodshed and ensures the return of hostages.
Image: Ebrahim Hajjaj/REUTERS
