Israel Hamas Peace Deal: First-Phase Agreement Confirmed

Israel and Hamas have officially agreed to the first phase of a Gaza peace plan, U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday night. The agreement includes a ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, and an initial withdrawal of Israeli forces to a pre-defined line inside Gaza. It marks the first major breakthrough in over two years of devastating conflict.

The announcement came as delegations in Egypt embraced in celebration, signaling the culmination of intense negotiations mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. The deal was presented as the start of a “strong, durable, and everlasting peace,” according to Trump, who hinted that he may travel to the Middle East soon as part of the next steps.

Inside the Israel Hamas Peace Deal: First-Phase Breakdown

The first phase of the agreement focuses on three urgent steps: halting hostilities, securing the release of all Israeli hostages held in Gaza, and initiating an Israeli troop withdrawal to an agreed-upon line. According to White House officials, once Israel’s cabinet approves the deal — a vote expected Thursday — the withdrawal could begin within 24 hours, starting a 72-hour countdown for hostage releases.

Hamas confirmed that it has submitted a list of Palestinian prisoners it seeks in exchange for the hostages. A Hamas source said the group is proposing the release of all living Israeli hostages within 72 hours of the agreement taking effect, in exchange for around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli authorities believe that about 20 of the 48 hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks are still alive.

Qatar’s prime minister described the deal as one that “leads to an end to the war, the release of detainees, and the entry of humanitarian aid.” The agreement also paves the way for expanded humanitarian access to Gaza, which the UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres called “desperately needed.” He urged both sides to fully implement the deal, saying “the suffering must end” and pressing for the long-term goal of a two-state solution.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the breakthrough as “a great day for Israel,” praising the role of U.S. mediation and reaffirming his commitment to bringing all hostages home. “Through steadfast resolve, powerful military action, and the great efforts of President Trump, we have reached this critical turning point,” Netanyahu said. “God bless Israel. God bless America. God bless our great alliance.”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio hands President Donald Trump a handwritten note about ongoing Gaza peace negotiations during their meeting at the White House on October 8, 2025. The two leaders are seen discussing the latest developments as efforts intensify to finalize the agreement. © Jim Watson, AFP

Reactions and What Comes Next

The international community quickly responded to the announcement. The UN pledged to scale up humanitarian aid and reconstruction efforts once the ceasefire begins. Hostage families in Israel expressed “excitement, anticipation, and concern,” calling the deal a “historic breakthrough” and urging swift government approval to avoid delays that could endanger their loved ones.

However, skepticism remains. Analysts warned that the deal’s success hinges on whether both sides adhere to its terms beyond the initial phase. Political analyst Yousef Munayyer noted the risk of Israel backing out after the first steps and questioned whether Trump could “rein in” Netanyahu to ensure compliance. Hamas, meanwhile, called on Trump and mediators to prevent Israel from “evading or delaying” the agreement’s implementation.

Middle East analyst Hagai M. Segal described the deal as “hugely important” but cautioned that it is “just the first phase of a multi-phase process” that could take years to fully realize. If successful, the agreement could redefine regional dynamics and pave the way for a two-state solution — a goal that has eluded negotiators for decades.

The Israel Hamas peace deal’s first phase marks a pivotal moment in one of the most enduring and deadly conflicts of the century. If implemented as agreed, it could end hostilities, free hostages, and lay the groundwork for long-term peace in Gaza and the wider region.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What does the first phase of the Israel Hamas peace deal include?

It includes a ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces, prisoner exchanges, and expanded humanitarian access into Gaza.

Q2: When could hostages be released?

Once Israel’s cabinet approves the agreement, the release process is expected to begin within 72 hours, with Monday mentioned as a possible start date.

Q3: How many hostages remain in Gaza?

Israeli authorities say 48 hostages remain, with around 20 believed to be alive. Hamas has pledged to prioritize their release as part of the deal.

Q4: Which countries mediated the peace deal?

Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey played leading roles in brokering the agreement, with the United States closely involved in the final stages.

Q5: What happens after the first phase?

Further negotiations will address Gaza’s governance, long-term security arrangements, and the establishment of a possible technocratic administration with international oversight.

References

Reuters. (2025). “Israel and Hamas agree to first phase of Trump’s Gaza ceasefire plan.” October 9, 2025.

Associated Press. (2025). “Israel and Hamas agree to ‘first phase’ of plan to end fighting and release hostages, Trump says.” October 8, 2025.

BBC News. (2025). “Israel and Hamas sign off first phase of Gaza peace plan, says Trump.” October 9, 2025.

Sky News. (2025). “Gaza peace deal: Netanyahu hails ‘critical turning point’ as Hamas agrees to release hostages.” October 9, 2025.