Ceasefire Agreement Reached in Gaza

Hamas and Israel have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire and peace framework intended to end the war in Gaza after negotiators reached a breakthrough in Egypt, according to an announcement by US President Donald Trump. Both parties also confirmed that they had formally signed on to the deal, which was brokered with support from Egypt, Qatar and Turkey, who acted as key mediators throughout the negotiations.

The agreement includes a partial Israeli troop withdrawal to a mutually agreed line and the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas. The exchange of hostages and prisoners is expected to take place within 72 hours of implementation.

President Trump presented the deal as the opening step in a 20-point peace plan, designed to establish a framework for future discussions on governance and statehood. However, several unresolved issues remain, including Gaza’s administration, demilitarisation, and post-war reconstruction.