2025-10-09T06:02:46Z

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In a stunning turn of events, US President Donald Trump has announced that Israel and Hamas have reached a groundbreaking ceasefire deal after intense negotiations in Egypt. This news not only marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conflict but also opens the door to significant humanitarian relief in Gaza.

With Qatar stepping in as a key mediator alongside Egypt, the United States, and Turkey, the newly brokered deal is described as the 'first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement.' It promises to pave the way for peace, the release of hostages, and the crucial entry of humanitarian aid into the region. Trump shared on his Truth Social platform, '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.'

So what does this agreement entail? Well, here's the scoop: Hamas is set to release 20 hostages, with a Palestinian source indicating that this will occur simultaneously with Israel's release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This includes 250 prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 others detained since the war began. The exchange is expected to take place within 72 hours once the deal is activated.

Moreover, the agreement ensures that a daily minimum of 400 trucks of aid will flow into Gaza for the first five days, with plans to increase this number subsequently. It also facilitates the return of displaced citizens from southern Gaza back to their homes in the north and the city of Gaza.

As part of this deal, Israeli forces are required to conduct 'scheduled withdrawals' as outlined by a top Hamas official, who added that guarantees from President Trump and other mediators have been put in place. Hamas has urged Trump to ensure Israel adheres to the terms of the agreement without delay.

The next steps are equally critical. A spokesperson for the Qatari foreign ministry confirmed that both parties have agreed on the provisions of the ceasefire, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu planning to convene his government for approval later today. The formal signing is slated to occur midday local time in Egypt, with discussions for a second phase of the ceasefire kicking off immediately thereafter.

As for the hostages, Trump expressed optimism, suggesting that all will return home—alive or otherwise—by Monday, as part of his 20-point plan focused on ceasefire and disarmament.