Israel and Hamas Agree to Initial Phase of Gaza Ceasefire Plan

Israel and Hamas have agreed to the initial phase of a ceasefire plan, aiming to release hostages and initiate troop withdrawals in Gaza.

Under the agreement, within 24 hours of Israeli government approval, Israeli forces will redeploy to a designated line within Gaza. Within 72 hours of this redeployment, Hamas is expected to release 20 living Israeli hostages and the remains of 28 others, including four non-Israelis. In exchange, Israel will release 1,700 Palestinian prisoners and 22 minors, none of whom are accused of involvement in the October 7 attacks.

Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben Gvir has expressed opposition to the plan, stating that the release of prisoners is an "unbearable price." He emphasized that if Hamas's rule is not dismantled, his party would consider leaving the government coalition.

In Tel Aviv, demonstrators gathered in Hostage Square, chanting for the immediate return of all hostages. Some participants displayed appreciation for the United States' role in facilitating the ceasefire, with signs expressing support for President Donald Trump.

Former hostages addressed the crowd, urging continued efforts until all captives are returned. Amit Soussana acknowledged the pain associated with releasing prisoners but stressed the importance of bringing all hostages home.

In Gaza, residents like Hadil Abu Zaid, a relief worker, expressed exhaustion after being displaced multiple times. He described being "haunted by the shadow of death, fear, sorrow, and hunger."

US President Donald Trump announced that all remaining hostages in Gaza are expected to be released by Monday or Tuesday under the first phase of the ceasefire plan. He expressed optimism about achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.

Former President Barack Obama welcomed the agreement, highlighting the opportunity to build a lasting peace and emphasizing the need for both Israelis and Palestinians to recognize each other's humanity and rights.

The Israeli Knesset building was illuminated with red, white, and blue lights in anticipation of President Trump's visit, marking the agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Hamas has stated that it received clear guarantees from mediators that Israel will adhere to the ceasefire. Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan emphasized the importance of mediator roles in ensuring commitment to the agreement.

French President Emmanuel Macron called on both Israel and Hamas to honor their commitments under the ceasefire agreement and warned against the expansion of Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank, describing it as a threat to a potential Palestinian state.

President Trump projected optimism that outstanding issues not covered by the first phase of the ceasefire agreement will be resolved, emphasizing the importance of disarmament and withdrawal arrangements. He also indicated plans to rebuild Gaza into a livable area.

Nepal has called for the immediate release of all hostages, including Nepali national Bipin Joshi, who has been held by Hamas since October 7, 2023. Nepal's Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed appreciation for mediators' efforts and urged the implementation of the plan to ensure lasting peace in the region.