Gaza Ceasefire Deal: Truce Signed, Hostages Set for Release in Exchange for Prisoners
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A major diplomatic breakthrough has been reached to pause the two-year conflict in the Gaza Strip. After intensive indirect talks, Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire deal, which includes a cessation of hostilities, the release of remaining hostages, and a massive surge of humanitarian aid.
The agreement, announced by US President Donald Trump and confirmed by officials on both sides, is the most significant step toward ending the devastating war. The deal was brokered through the tireless efforts of mediators from the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
The Hostage-Prisoner Exchange
The cornerstone of the initial phase is an immediate exchange of captives. Hamas is set to release all remaining Israeli hostages, believed to include approximately 20 living individuals, in return for Israel freeing around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This number includes 250 Palestinians serving life sentences.
The exchange is scheduled to take place within 72 hours of the deal's formal implementation, with President Trump suggesting the hostages could be returned as early as Monday or Tuesday.
Implementation and Withdrawal
The ceasefire will formally take effect following its ratification by the Israeli government, which is convening its cabinet to approve the agreement.
Once approved, an Israeli government spokesperson stated that Israeli forces would begin a limited withdrawal to an agreed-upon line within Gaza within 24 hours. This initial pullback will be followed by the 72-hour countdown for the hostage release.
Critically, the agreement also mandates an immediate and substantial increase in humanitarian aid, which the UN says is desperately needed to address the severe crisis and famine risk in the enclave.
Global Reaction and Remaining Challenges
The announcement has triggered waves of cautious celebration among Palestinians in Khan Younis and Israelis in Tel Aviv's "Hostages Square." World leaders have welcomed the news, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres calling it a "desperately needed breakthrough" and urging all parties to "abide fully" by the terms.
Despite the optimism, significant challenges remain. This initial agreement only covers the first phase of the broader US peace plan. Thornier, long-term issues—such as the full withdrawal of all Israeli forces, the disarmament of Hamas, and the future governance and reconstruction of Gaza—are yet to be negotiated. Hamas officials have also sought guarantees from the US that Israel will not resume its military campaign once the hostages are released.
