Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

TEL AVIV — Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire deal aimed at ending the severe conflict in Gaza, which has witnessed unprecedented violence between Israelis and Palestinians.

President Trump announced via Truth Social that both parties “have signed off on the first Phase of our Peace Plan.” He asserted that this agreement would lead to the release of all hostages and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to an agreed line.

Trump emphasized that this marks a significant day for the Arab and Muslim worlds, Israel, neighboring nations, and the United States. He expressed gratitude to the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their efforts in achieving this “historic and unprecedented event.”

The announcement followed Trump’s statement about his readiness to visit the Middle East soon. The negotiations took place indirectly through intermediaries, including Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and envoy Steve Witkoff, amid assistance from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in Sharm-El-Sheikh, Egypt.

The precise start date of the ceasefire remains unclear. Under the deal, Hamas is expected to release nearly 50 hostages, while Israel will free around 2,000 Palestinian detainees. Key provisions include Hamas disarming and stepping back from governance in Gaza, which has faced two years of conflict.

This agreement signifies progress after several previous attempts at ceasefires that ultimately failed. Support for ending hostilities exists in both Israeli and Palestinian communities, with many calling for peace.

The conflict, initiated by a surprise attack from Hamas on October 7, 2023, resulted in significant casualties. Israel responded with force, leading to extensive destruction in Gaza. While a cessation of hostilities may soon be on the horizon, the path to addressing Palestinian political rights remains ambiguous.