Israel and Hamas Reach Initial Ceasefire Agreement, Paving the Way for Peace Under Trump’s Plan

'Peace in the Middle East': Trump signs ceasefire deal in Egypt Photo: Getty Images

On October 13, 2025, Israel and Hamas have begun a historic exchange of prisoners and hostages, marking the first major step toward peace under a U.S.-brokered plan following more than two years of war in Gaza. Hamas released all remaining Israeli hostages held since the October 7, 2023 attacks, while Israel freed nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees, including those held without charge and several serving life sentences. The exchange took place after a ceasefire went into effect on Friday, allowing emotional family reunions on both sides amid scenes of relief and celebration.

Following the first phase of the exchange, U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in Israel and delivered a speech before the Knesset, declaring the event “the dawn of a new Middle East.” Trump said, “The long and painful nightmare has finally ended
not only for Israelis but also for Palestinians.” He later attended a peace summit in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, where leaders from over 20 nations including Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States,
signed a declaration guaranteeing the ceasefire and committing to Gaza’s reconstruction.

Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, significant challenges remain. Families of Israeli hostages expressed anger after Hamas agreed to return the bodies of only four deceased captives, while the remains of an estimated 24 others are still believed to be in Gaza. Trump’s 20-point peace plan also faces difficult sticking points that will require intense negotiations, including Israel’s military withdrawal timeline, the disarmament of Hamas, and the future governance of Gaza all contentious issues between the two sides.

Under Trump’s proposed plan, Gaza would be temporarily administered by a transitional committee of Palestinian technocrats, overseen by a “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump himself, with former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair playing a key advisory role. Authority would later transfer to the Palestinian Authority (PA) following reforms. While the proposal has gained international support, Hamas has rejected any form of foreign governance and refuses to disarm unless a Palestinian state is formally established.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also opposed future PA involvement.
Still, Trump affirmed that “Phase Two negotiations have already begun,” signaling continued efforts toward a lasting peace in the Middle East.

Source: BBC

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