US President Donald Trump has announced that “Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first phase of our Peace Plan,” signaling a potential breakthrough in the conflict that has plagued the region for over two years.
On Truth Social, Trump stated, “This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the agreement as “a great day for Israel” and plans to convene the government on Thursday to formally approve the deal. Hamas has also confirmed the arrangement, urging Trump and the involved countries to ensure Israel fully implements the agreement.
While hopes are high that this could mark the beginning of an end to the war, key details of the deal still need to be negotiated, according to our Middle East correspondent.
The talks in Egypt come two years and two days after Israel launched a military campaign in Gaza following the October 7, 2023, attack, during which Hamas-led gunmen killed approximately 1,200 people and took 251 hostages.
Since the conflict began, Israeli military operations in Gaza have reportedly killed at least 67,183 people, including 20,179 children, according to the Hamas-run health ministry.
The announcement raises cautious optimism for a long-sought resolution, but observers warn that implementation and enforcement will be critical to achieving lasting peace.
