📌 First Phase Ceasefire: Israel & Hamas Strike Deal Amid War in Gaza

In a dramatic turn of events, Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire under U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan, which officially took effect at 9:00 GMT (2:00 pm PKT), according to Egyptian state media Al-Qahera News.

The agreement marks a pivotal moment in the two-year long Gaza conflict, aiming to halt hostilities, exchange hostages, and pave the way for humanitarian relief. Reuters The Guardian

📋 Key Components of the Deal

Hostage Exchange: Hamas will release 20 living captives in return for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. AP News Reuters
Troop Withdrawal: Israel will pull back its forces to a mutually agreed line as part of phase one implementation. Reuters The Guardian
Aid Influx: The ceasefire includes provisions for a surge in humanitarian aid to Gaza, allowing relief to enter after prolonged blockades. Reuters The Guardian
Timeline: The exchange is scheduled to take place within 72 hours of the ceasefire’s start. AP News Reuters

🌍 Reactions and Restrictions

While the deal has sparked celebrations in both Gaza and Israel, the airstrikes had not fully ceased at the time of agreement, raising doubts about its immediate implementation. Reuters

Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed hope that all Israeli captives would soon return home. Meanwhile, Trump lauded mediators Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their role in brokering the deal. Reuters The Guardian

🛑 Challenges Ahead

The agreement leaves critical questions unanswered:

Role of Hamas: Will it remain armed or assume any governance role post-war?
Long-Term Governance: Who will oversee Gaza’s administration after the conflict?
Full Disarmament: The plan’s later phases may require Hamas to surrender arms, a demand likely to spark tough negotiations.

This initial ceasefire is being seen as a test of trust and will for all parties involved.

For more coverage and updates:

Reuters: Israel, Hamas agree Gaza ceasefire deal Reuters
The Guardian: First phase ceasefire deal struck after two years of war The Guardian
AP News: Israel and Hamas reach deal to exchange hostages AP News