October 9, 2025
Deal Overview
Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire deal brokered in Egypt, marking a potential turning point in the two-year war that has devastated Gaza.
- Ceasefire Terms: Immediate halt to hostilities, phased Israeli withdrawal, and humanitarian aid entry
- Hostage Exchange: Hamas to release 20 living Israeli captives; Israel to free 2,000 Palestinian prisoners
- Mediators: Qatar, Egypt, Turkey, and the U.S. played key roles in securing the agreement
- Formal Signing: Expected midday Thursday in Cairo
Implementation Timeline
- Hostage-prisoner exchange to begin within 72 hours of signing
- Israel to withdraw from majority of Gaza, retaining control over strategic zones initially
- Final hostage release tied to complete Israeli military exit
Political Signals
- Trump’s Role: U.S. President Donald Trump hailed the deal as “a great day for the world,” crediting his 20-point peace plan
- Netanyahu’s Response: Called it “a great day for Israel,” pending cabinet approval
- Hamas Statement: Framed the deal as a victory for Palestinian resistance and humanitarian relief
Human Cost So Far
- Over 67,000 Palestinians killed since October 2023
- 169,000+ wounded, with thousands buried under rubble
- 1,139 Israelis killed in the initial October 7 attacks; ~200 taken hostage
Remaining Tensions
- Hamas demands guarantees Israel won’t resume fighting
- Israel insists on disarmament and elimination of Hamas’s military capacity
- Skepticism remains over long-term peace and trust between parties
(Source – Al Jazeera)
—Agencies
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