A long-awaited Gaza ceasefire has officially gone into effect, marking the first phase of U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace plan aimed at ending the devastating war between Israel and Hamas. The truce began Thursday at 9 a.m. GMT (2 p.m. Pakistan time), according to reports from Egyptian officials involved in the mediation.
The deal brings cautious optimism to a region that has endured immense suffering, destruction, and loss since the outbreak of hostilities in October 2023. It includes the release of captives and prisoners, as well as increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, where over two years of bombardment have created a catastrophic humanitarian crisis.
Key Provisions of the Ceasefire Deal
Under the first phase of the plan, Hamas will release all Israeli captives, while Israel will withdraw its troops to an agreed-upon line inside Gaza.
President Trump confirmed that Hamas would free 20 living captives in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. The exchange will take place within 72 hours after the deal’s implementation.
Of those to be released, 250 Palestinians are serving life sentences, while 1,700 others were detained after the 2023 conflict began.
Trump expressed optimism on social media, stating, “All hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will pull back its troops. This marks the first step toward a strong and lasting peace.”
Regional and International Reactions
Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye played key roles as mediators in brokering the truce. Qatar described the deal as the first stage toward ending the war, releasing captives, and ensuring sustained humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the agreement, pledging to bring the captives home “with God’s help.” He credited Trump’s leadership and partnership for reaching this milestone, emphasizing that it represented “a turning point toward peace and security.”
Trump called the development “a great day for the world,” noting that the agreement showcased unprecedented global cooperation.
Ground Situation and Public Response in Gaza
In southern Gaza’s Al-Mawasi region, crowds gathered to celebrate the ceasefire announcement. Joyful chants of “Allahu Akbar” echoed through the night as displaced families expressed relief after years of relentless violence.
Mohammed Zamlot, a 50-year-old displaced resident, said, “We’re following every bit of news about the negotiations and praying this truce will hold.”
However, reports indicated that Israeli bombardments continued in some areas even hours before the ceasefire took effect. The Gaza health ministry estimated over 67,000 deaths since the start of the conflict — figures that the United Nations has deemed credible.
Political Stakes and Prisoner Negotiations
Hamas submitted a list of prisoners it wants released during the first phase of the truce, including high-profile figures like Marwan Barghouti from the rival Fatah movement. The group has demanded international guarantees from President Trump and sponsor countries to ensure the war ends permanently.
Hamas also insists that any future governance of Gaza must be led by a Palestinian technocratic administration backed by Arab and Muslim countries, rejecting any foreign supervision or leadership role for former British Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Future of the Trump Peace Plan
The next phase of Trump’s 20-point Middle East peace plan involves the creation of an international body to oversee Gaza’s post-war reconstruction. The U.S., alongside other global powers, will play a central role in shaping the region’s stability.
Arab nations supporting the plan have stressed that it must ultimately lead to the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. However, Israeli leaders, including Netanyahu, maintain that statehood remains off the table.
Despite this, optimism persists that this ceasefire may serve as the foundation for a lasting peace after years of devastation.
A Moment of Hope Amid Uncertainty
The Gaza ceasefire agreement represents a rare diplomatic breakthrough following two years of intense warfare, civilian casualties, and global condemnation. While challenges remain, including trust between both sides, the truce provides a vital opportunity for humanitarian relief and renewed peace talks.
As aid begins to flow into Gaza and captives prepare for release, many hope this moment marks the beginning of a durable peace , not another temporary pause in a long, painful conflict.
