In a major diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire on Wednesday. The deal pauses nearly two years of fighting in Gaza and allows the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
The agreement, supported by U.S. President Donald Trump, is the most significant progress toward peace since the war began in 2023.
Ceasefire Enables Hostage and Prisoner Exchanges
Under the deal, Hamas will free 20 living hostages within days. In return, Israel will release Palestinian prisoners and start a gradual troop withdrawal from Gaza.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his Cabinet and parliament will meet Thursday to approve the ceasefire. Hamas confirmed it had submitted a list of prisoners for release.
“This is a difficult but necessary step,” Netanyahu said. “It will bring our people home and secure Israel’s future.”
Hamas Declares the End of the War
Hamas announced it accepted a plan that would end the Gaza war. The group called for full Israeli withdrawal, unrestricted humanitarian aid, and a framework for reconstruction.
“The ceasefire will allow Gaza to breathe again,” said Hamas official Khalil al-Hayya. “It is the first step toward recovery and freedom.”
Still, challenges remain. Israel and the Trump administration insist that Hamas must disarm. Questions also linger over who will govern Gaza after the withdrawal.
Trump Announces Timeline for Hostage Release
At a White House Cabinet meeting Thursday, President Trump praised the ceasefire as “a victory for diplomacy and humanity.” He confirmed that hostages will begin returning home early next week.
“It’s a complex process,” Trump said. “Hostages will be released on Monday or Tuesday. We’ll also bring home the remains of about 28 others.”
Trump plans to travel to Egypt for the signing ceremony. He called the deal “a historic moment for peace” but did not say if he would visit Israel or Gaza during the trip.
Two Years of War and Destruction
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing about 1,200 people and taking 251 hostages.
Israel’s retaliatory campaign killed tens of thousands of Palestinians and displaced millions. Entire neighborhoods in Gaza were reduced to rubble.
The United Nations reports that more than 80% of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents have lost their homes. Aid groups describe the situation as one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises.
Israel rejects allegations of genocide, saying its military targeted Hamas and sought to free hostages.
Mixed Reactions to the Ceasefire Deal
The Israel and Hamas ceasefire sparked a wave of emotions across the region.
In Tel Aviv, thousands gathered in Hostages Square, where families have held daily vigils for two years. As news spread, people hugged and waved Israeli flags.
“This is what we prayed for,” said Dalia Levi, whose daughter was taken hostage in 2023.
In Gaza City, residents cautiously celebrated. “If the truce holds, maybe we can start living again,” said Mahmoud Saleh, a teacher who lost his home.
World leaders welcomed the deal. The U.N., EU, and Arab League urged both sides to maintain the truce and push for lasting peace.
Challenges Ahead: A Fragile Peace
Analysts warn the ceasefire is fragile.
“It’s an important first step,” said Dr. Rana Mansour, a Middle East expert. “But peace will depend on clear plans for Gaza’s future.”
The U.S. plan includes rebuilding Gaza, deploying international monitors, and forming a temporary local authority. Details remain under discussion.
Hardliners on both sides oppose the deal. Some Israeli ministers accuse Netanyahu of “surrendering to Hamas.” Within Hamas, factions demand full Israeli withdrawal before prisoner exchanges take place.
Regional Impact of the Ceasefire
The Israel-Hamas ceasefire could ease tensions beyond Gaza. The war triggered fighting in southern Lebanon, Iraq, and Syria, and disrupted Red Sea shipping routes.
U.S. officials hope the truce will stabilize the region and revive talks involving Egypt, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.
“This agreement doesn’t just stop the fighting,” said Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. “It opens the door to regional cooperation and long-term peace.”
A Step Toward Lasting Peace
As the ceasefire takes effect, families on both sides are filled with hope and anxiety.
In Hostages Square, candles flickered as names of those still missing were read aloud. “This time,” said one volunteer, “we pray it’s truly the end.”
For Gaza’s families, the focus is survival. “We want to rebuild our homes and lives,” said Huda Mansour, a mother of three. “No one wins in war.”
Whether this truce becomes permanent depends on both sides’ willingness to move beyond revenge and rebuild trust. For now, Israel and Hamas have taken the first real step toward peace in two long years.
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