In a major diplomatic development, U.S. President Donald Trump said Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of his 20 point peace proposal aimed at ending the Gaza conflict. The announcement marks what many are calling the most significant breakthrough since hostilities began.
What Trump Has Declared
- On Wednesday evening, Trump posted on his social media platform that both Israel and Hamas had signed off on the first step of the agreement. He stated that all hostages held by Hamas would be released “very soon,” and that Israel would pull its troops back to an “agreed line” inside Gaza as part of the initial implementation.
- Trump described the deal as laying the groundwork for a “Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace” and said that “all parties will be treated fairly” under the agreement.
What the First Phase Includes
According to the announcement and subsequent statements from officials:
- Hamas will release 20 living hostages in the coming days in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.
- Israel will begin withdrawing its forces from large parts of Gaza (to predetermined lines) as part of the ceasefire terms.
- Humanitarian aid access and the exchange of prisoners are integral to the initial phase.
- Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has confirmed he will convene his cabinet to approve the agreement.
- Hamas, for its part, acknowledged it has committed to the agreement, asking for international guarantees to ensure full implementation by Israel.
Reactions & Challenges
Israel & Netanyahu:
Netanyahu called the agreement a major diplomatic success, pledging that with God’s help, Israel would bring every hostage home. However, some members of his right-wing coalition have expressed reservations, especially over troop withdrawal and guarantees against renewed hostilities.
Hamas:
Officials from Hamas confirmed that the deal includes a comprehensive prisoner–hostage swap and emphasized their demand that Israel adhere strictly to all agreed terms. They also handed over a list of Palestinian prisoners to be released under the deal.
Humanitarian & Civilian Context:
In Gaza, tens of thousands of homes have been destroyed, and the humanitarian crisis is severe. Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that in the 24 hours prior to the announcement, nine Palestinians were killed by Israeli fire. Many in the enclave expressed cautious optimism, noting past ceasefires that eventually collapsed.
International Response:
Leaders from Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Turkey, and other nations praised the move. Several called it a hopeful step toward a lasting ceasefire and peace in the Middle East. The U.N. also urged all parties to honor the agreement and ensure humanitarian access.
Key Uncertainties Ahead
- Full implementation: The agreement is only for the first phase; significant questions remain over how later phases will work, especially governance in Gaza and Hamas’s role.
- Verification & enforcement: Ensuring that both sides adhere to the withdrawal lines, release schedules, and ceasefire terms will require strong monitoring.
- Coalition stability in Israel: Some coalition partners may resist moves they view as concessions to Hamas.
- Public trust: Many in Gaza have grown skeptical of promises after prior failed agreements. Civilian confidence in the deal’s durability is fragile.
