Israel and Hamas reach ceasefire and hostage exchange deal

 

Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas signed an agreement on Thursday to cease fire and free Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. 

 

This marks the first phase of US President Donald Trump's initiative to end the war in Gaza, which has resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian deaths during the past two years. The deal was confirmed by officials from both sides following talks in Egypt.

 

The agreement states that fighting will stop, Israel will partially withdraw from Gaza, and Hamas will release all remaining hostages taken during the initial attacks. In return, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Additionally, aid trucks with food and medical supplies will be allowed into Gaza to assist civilians displaced by the conflict.

 

The ceasefire will officially begin after the Israeli government ratifies the agreement in a security cabinet meeting planned for later Thursday. However, challenges remain, as the list of Palestinian prisoners to be released is still being finalised. Hamas is seeking the release of prominent convicts as well as detainees from the recent conflict. Further discussions about Trump’s broader 20-point plan, which includes future governance of Gaza and the status of Hamas, have yet to occur.

 

Despite these uncertainties, the announcement brought joy to many in both Gaza and Israel.