Trump announces first phase of peace plan, promising release of hostages and troop withdrawals.
United States President Donald Trump announced that Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on the initial phase of a peace plan for Gaza. This development, confirmed by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, includes provisions for the release of all hostages held by Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to a mutually agreed-upon line. Trump emphasized that this marks the beginning of steps toward establishing a strong, durable, and lasting peace. He stated that all parties involved would be treated fairly throughout the process.
The announcement followed three days of indirect negotiations in Egypt, facilitated by officials from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States. Netanyahu expressed that this agreement is a significant diplomatic and moral victory for Israel, stating, “With the approval of the first phase of the plan, all our hostages will be brought home.” He reiterated his commitment to ensuring the return of all hostages and achieving Israel’s broader objectives.
In response to the agreement, the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) indicated they were preparing for a partial troop withdrawal from the Gaza Strip as part of the ceasefire arrangement. They reported that preparations and a combat protocol are being established to adjust deployment lines. The IDF remains in the area, ready to respond to any operational developments, as they follow directives from the political leadership based on the current situational assessment.
Hamas acknowledged the agreement, asserting that it guarantees the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, facilitates humanitarian aid access, and includes a plan for the exchange of hostages and prisoners. The group described the negotiations as responsible and serious, urging Trump and the mediators to ensure that Israel adheres to all agreed terms promptly and without alterations.
The first phase of the plan encompasses a ceasefire, the release of Israeli captives, and the release of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli custody. However, the discussions did not address issues of disarmament, governance in Gaza, or whether Hamas would demilitarize, as outlined in Trump’s earlier 20-point proposal.
While the negotiations unfolded, Israel continued its military actions in Gaza, resulting in casualties. Reports indicated that at least eight Palestinians were killed and numerous others injured due to ongoing strikes. Since the onset of the conflict in October 2023, which began after Hamas’s incursion into southern Israel, the situation in Gaza has been dire, with substantial loss of life and humanitarian crises.
Previous ceasefire efforts had faltered due to disagreements, but the peace plan outlined by Trump on September 29 aims for a structured approach to resolving the conflict. The proposal includes provisions for a temporary governance structure in Gaza, overseen by a “Board of Peace” that would involve international figures, including Trump and former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The governance would exclude Hamas from any direct role, focusing instead on a technocratic committee of Palestinians and global experts.
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the announcement, recognizing the leadership of Netanyahu and expressing hope that the agreement would lead to humanitarian relief for the people of Gaza and foster lasting peace. United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also endorsed the announcement, promising UN support for the full implementation of the agreement and urging all parties to comply with its terms, including the dignified release of all hostages and the establishment of a permanent ceasefire.
