Washington (Hornpost) U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that the first phase of the Gaza peace deal has been reached, stating that “all hostages will soon be released.”
The agreement includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza.
Speaking to Fox News, Mr. Trump said the hostages would be released on Monday. He added that the Middle East is “coming together,” and Gaza will be rebuilt with proper humanitarian support.
“I am very confident that peace will be restored in the Middle East,” he said, pledging fair treatment for all parties involved as a step toward a lasting peace.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the deal as “a great day for Israel” and announced that his government would convene today to ratify it.
Hamas confirmed the agreement, urging Trump and other relevant countries to ensure that Israel fully complies with its terms.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also issued a statement on X, describing the hostage release as “a moment of joy.” He expressed gratitude to both the Israeli and U.S. presidents and praised the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) for their “bravery, determination, and immense sacrifice.”
According to a senior Palestinian official who spoke to the BBC, the ceasefire will take effect immediately after Israeli government approval, expected around 14:00 Jerusalem time.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the United Nations would fully support the “implementation” of the agreement, alongside expanding humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts in Gaza.
He urged all parties to respect the agreement’s conditions — including the release of Israeli hostages, adherence to a lasting ceasefire, and swift facilitation of humanitarian access.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed the first phase of the Gaza peace deal, calling it “a much-needed step toward peace after more than two years of devastating conflict, hostage-taking, and massive civilian loss.”
The Cairo talks mark two years and two days since Israel launched its military campaign in Gaza in response to the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack that killed around 1,200 people and resulted in 251 hostages being taken.
This represents the first phase of a 20-point peace plan unveiled by President Trump last week.
Since the start of Israel’s military operations, at least 67,183 people — including 20,179 children — have been killed in Gaza, according to the Hamas-run Ministry of Health.
While this development raises hopes of ending more than two years of war, key questions remain over who will govern Gaza and what role, if any, Hamas will have in the territory’s future.
Hornpost Staff Reporter
