Historic Peace Deal Between Israel and Hamas
Hamas has agreed to a peace deal brokered by President Donald Trump to end the war in Gaza and release hostages. The announcement comes two years after the Oct. 7, 2023 attacks, which marked the bloodiest day for Jews since the Holocaust and sparked a deadly conflict across the Gaza Strip.
Trump Announces the Agreement
On Wednesday, Trump took to Truth Social to share the news:
“I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first phase of our Peace Plan. All hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw troops to an agreed-upon line as the first steps toward strong, durable, and everlasting peace. All parties will be treated fairly! This is a GREAT day for the Arab and Muslim world, Israel, all surrounding nations, and the United States. We thank the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for making this historic event happen. BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS!”
Speaking to Sean Hannity, Trump said he expects the hostages to be released on Monday. He did not confirm whether he would travel to the region, though Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu invited him to address the parliament on Sunday.
Behind the Scenes in Sharm el-Sheikh
Photos emerged showing senior officials embracing and shaking hands at the negotiations in Sharm el-Sheikh. Retired General Nitzan Alon was seen with Qatar’s Prime Minister Al-Thani, while special envoy Steve Witkoff looked on. Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and other officials appeared smiling.
Israeli sources say preparations are underway for an official announcement, with the deal expected to be signed as early as Thursday.
Statements From Israeli Leadership
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said:
“With God’s help, we will bring them all home.”
He added in Hebrew:
“A great day for Israel. Tomorrow I will convene the government to approve the agreement and bring all our dear hostages home. Thanks to the heroic soldiers of the IDF and all security forces, we have reached this day. I thank President Trump and his team for mobilizing for this sacred mission. With God’s help, we will continue to achieve all our objectives and expand peace with our neighbors.”
Defense Minister Israel Katz called the hostage release a blessing, expressing gratitude to both Netanyahu and Trump.
Hamas Confirms the Agreement
Hamas released a statement:
“After responsible and serious negotiations with President Trump’s proposal in Sharm el-Sheikh, Hamas announces an agreement that ends the war in Gaza, allows for occupation withdrawal, entry of aid, and a prisoner exchange.”
The 20-point plan also establishes temporary governance in Gaza under a technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee, responsible for daily public services and municipalities.
Regional and International Support
Mediators from Qatar and Egypt presented the plan to Hamas last month. While several Middle Eastern, Arab, and Western nations support Palestinian statehood, the plan does not define a path for statehood. Instead, a separate panel of experts will create an economic reconstruction plan for Gaza.
Trump emphasized that the deal ensures no one would be forced to leave Gaza and prevents annexation by Israel.
“We will encourage people to stay and offer them the opportunity to build a better Gaza,” his administration stated.
Trump also warned that if Hamas rejected the deal, Israel would have full U.S. support for its operational plans in Gaza.
Toward Peace and Stability
With the deal signed, the international community hopes for a reduction in conflict and a path toward stability. The first steps include the release of hostages, troop withdrawals, and the gradual reconstruction of Gaza under civilian management.
