Donald Trump stated that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial stage of a peace proposal to halt hostilities and release some captives and detainees held in Gaza.
In a post on Truth Social, he acknowledged mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, saying: “This means ALL hostages will be released shortly, and Israel will withdraw its forces to a designated line as the first steps toward lasting peace.”
Hamas confirmed the agreement, stating it includes an Israeli pullback from Gaza and an exchange of hostages for prisoners. The group described the deal as the result of “responsible and serious negotiations” over Trump’s proposal.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude to the U.S. for its dedication to securing the release of hostages, vowing, “We will bring them all home.” He announced plans to convene the Israeli government on Thursday to finalize the agreement.
Negotiators recently held discussions in Egypt to resolve differences over the initial phase of a 21-point plan proposed by Trump. Sources familiar with the talks said Hamas will release all 20 surviving hostages this weekend, with deceased hostages returned in later stages. In exchange, Israel will withdraw from 70% of the area and free several hundred Palestinian detainees.
The Hostages Families Forum, representing many affected families, reacted with “excitement, anticipation, and apprehension” to the ceasefire news. The group urged immediate government approval of the deal and commended Trump for his role in the breakthrough.
Qatar’s foreign ministry confirmed the agreement, stating it would facilitate an end to the conflict, the exchange of captives, and the delivery of aid. Details will be made public later, a spokesperson said.
It remains unclear whether progress was made on more contentious issues, such as Hamas’ disarmament and the future governance of Gaza.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the agreement, urging all parties to comply fully with its terms. Trump earlier suggested the deal was nearly complete and indicated a potential trip to Egypt this weekend.
The conflict began with Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel, which killed approximately 1,200 people, most of them civilians.
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