Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire and Hostage Release
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a plan to pause fighting and release Israeli hostages and prisoners held in Gaza. Donald Trump announced the agreement overnight and the deal is expected to be signed on Thursday, reports 24brussels.
The former US President stated, “This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace. All Parties will be treated fairly!” Trump posted this on Truth Social. He later indicated that he expects the hostages to be released by Monday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will convene his government on Thursday to formally approve the deal. In response, Hamas called on Trump to ensure that Israel fully implements the ceasefire agreement. This development comes amid rising tensions and fears of continued conflict in the region.
UN Secretary General António Guterres expressed support for the “full implementation” of the deal, urging all parties involved to comply with the agreement’s terms, which include the immediate allowance of humanitarian supplies into Gaza. “The suffering must end,” he wrote in a post on X, adding, “I urge all stakeholders to seize this momentous opportunity to establish a credible political path forward towards ending the occupation, recognizing the right to self-determination of the Palestinian people, leading to a two-state solution to enable Israelis & Palestinians to live in peace & security.”
The agreement was reached after three days of indirect negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. Guterres praised the diplomatic efforts of the US, Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye, which mediated the deal. These efforts highlight the international community’s commitment to resolving the ongoing conflict.
In Tel Aviv, crowds gathered to celebrate the announcement of the ceasefire deal, reflecting the mixed emotions surrounding the long-standing conflict and the hope for peace among many in the region.
