• Source:JND
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Israel and Hamas on Thursday edged closer to ending their devastating two-year war, agreeing on the first phase of a peace deal that halts fighting in Gaza and opens the way for a major hostage-prisoner exchange. The breakthrough, driven by sustained pressure from US President Donald Trump and Arab mediators, sparked celebrations on both sides of the conflict despite lingering violence.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he would convene his cabinet to finalise the agreement, while President Trump hinted he might travel to the region to witness the launch of the deal. “This is the beginning of the end of a long and painful war,” Trump said, describing the pact as a cornerstone of his Middle East peace initiative.

Ceasefire Comes Into Force

The ceasefire officially took effect just after noon local time, when the agreement was signed at the Egyptian resort of Sharm el-Sheikh. Under its terms, Israel will partially withdraw troops from Gaza, Hamas will release hostages captured during the attack that ignited the conflict, and Israel will free Palestinian prisoners. 

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The deal paves the way for the release of 20 Israeli hostages believed to be alive, with officials indicating their return could happen on Sunday or Monday. Another 26 hostages have been declared dead in absentia, while the fate of two remains unknown. Hamas has suggested more time may be needed to locate and recover bodies from the rubble of Gaza.

Relief And Celebration

News of the agreement set off celebrations among Palestinians and Israeli hostage families. In Gaza, where more than two million people have been displaced by Israeli strikes, young men cheered in the devastated streets. “Thank God for the ceasefire, the end of bloodshed and killing,” said Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo in Khan Younis. “All of Gaza is happy, all the Arab people, all the world is happy.”

In Tel Aviv, relatives of hostages gathered in Hostages Square and erupted in relief. EinavZaugauker, whose son Matan is among those expected to be freed, described the moment as overwhelming. “I can’t breathe, I can’t explain what I’m feeling. What do I say to him? Just hug and kiss him and tell him I love him.” 

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Yet the ceasefire announcement was overshadowed by continued strikes in parts of Gaza. Residents reported Israeli bombardments in the Shejaia, Tuffah, and Zeitoun neighbourhoods overnight, with smoke rising across Gaza City.


(With inputs from agency)