On Thursday, US President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace deal, aiming to end the two-year war in Gaza.
The agreement, if approved by Israel’s government later today, will bring about a ceasefire and the release of 20 Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. It will also lead to Israeli troops pulling back and humanitarian aid entering Gaza.
Both sides have accepted the deal, though Hamas has said it is still waiting for the final list of prisoners from Israel. If all goes to plan, the remaining Israeli hostages will be freed by Monday.
The news has been met with joy and relief in both Gaza and Israel. In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, families and supporters celebrated with cheers, sweets and tears. Many have been campaigning for two years to bring their loved ones home after they were taken during Hamas’ attack on 7 October 2023.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called it “a great day,” while leaders around the world welcomed the news. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the moment would bring relief worldwide. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres praised the agreement and urged both sides to work towards a long-lasting peace.
World leaders from Canada, Malaysia, Japan, and Argentina expressed hope that this deal could lead to a lasting solution. Some, including Argentina’s president, even suggested President Trump should be nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize.
For the families of hostages, this moment brings hope that the pain and waiting may soon end. One mother, shouting with joy, said she couldn’t wait to hug her son and watch him sleep in his own bed again.
