Trump Announces Israel-Hamas Agreement on First Phase of Gaza Peace Deal

 U.S. President Donald Trump announced Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of his proposed peace plan aimed at ending the two-year conflict in Gaza. The initial phase includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of all living and deceased hostages held by Hamas, and Israel’s withdrawal of troops to a mutually agreed boundary.

Trump made the announcement on his social media platform Truth Social, stating that all captives will be released “very soon” and that the initial agreement represents a significant step toward a durable and lasting peace. He expressed gratitude to the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey who helped facilitate the deal.

This peace initiative follows a 20-point plan laid out by Trump last week after months of diplomatic efforts. While the details of subsequent phases remain unclear, the current agreement sets the stage for an Israeli cabinet vote expected Thursday to approve the deal formally. Following approval, Israel’s military will begin withdrawal, and Hamas is anticipated to start releasing hostages within 72 hours.

The conflict in Gaza, which erupted nearly two years ago following a surprise attack by Hamas killing approximately 1,200 Israelis, has claimed the lives of over 67,000 people in the region. The humanitarian toll has drawn international concern and condemnation.

Hamas welcomed the agreement, calling it an end to the war, the beginning of Israeli withdrawal, humanitarian aid access, and a prisoner exchange. Both sides have urged President Trump and the mediating countries to ensure full compliance without delays or evasion.

Looking ahead, Trump is expected to visit Egypt to continue pushing the peace process and has received an invitation to speak before Israel’s parliament. The second phase of the peace plan includes creating an international board to oversee Gaza’s governance and reconstruction.

While optimism grows over this historic breakthrough, many key issues remain unresolved, including Hamas’s disarmament and the future political status of Gaza. The world watches closely as this fragile ceasefire could reshape the region’s future.