Israel and Hamas Agree to Initial Peace Deal to Halt Fighting and Exchange Prisoners
Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on the "first phase" of a peace plan to pause hostilities and facilitate the release of hostages and detainees in Gaza, offering the strongest chance yet to end a devastating two-year conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of lives, destabilized the region, and sparked global demonstrations.
The agreement was announced by Donald Trump on his social media platform, stating that all hostages in Gaza would soon be freed and that Israeli forces would withdraw to a predetermined line as part of initial steps toward a lasting peace.
Hamas confirmed the deal on Thursday, following negotiations based on terms proposed by the U.S. president, and emphasized that it includes an Israeli pullout from Gaza and an exchange of captives. The group urged Trump and mediating nations to ensure Israel fully adheres to the ceasefire. Additionally, Hamas indicated that the remaining 20 living hostages would be released as early as this weekend, with sources suggesting a prisoner exchange could occur within 72 hours of signing, expected on Thursday.
In response, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it a "great day for Israel" and expressed his gratitude to Trump and his administration for their efforts in securing the hostages' freedom. Netanyahu plans to convene his government on Thursday to finalize the ceasefire agreement.
Trump described the development as a positive step for the Middle East and the U.S., thanking mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their role in facilitating the agreement. He also hinted at a possible visit to Egypt soon.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the deal, urging all parties to uphold their commitments. He called for the immediate release of all hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and unhindered humanitarian access to Gaza.
If successfully implemented, the agreement would represent Trump’s most significant foreign policy accomplishment since taking office in January, following initial challenges in resolving the Gaza conflict and other global crises. Senior U.S., Qatari, and Turkish officials had been involved in the negotiations.
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