On October 9, 2025, Israel and Hamas finalized a ceasefire pact. The deal, the first stage of President Donald Trump’s initiative, ends two years of conflict that reshaped the Middle East.
Joy Across Borders
Both Israelis and Palestinians celebrated the breakthrough. The agreement offers hope after 67,000 Palestinian deaths. It also paves the way for freeing the last hostages from the 2023 attacks.
Hamas Chief’s Assurance
Hamas leader Khalil Al-Hayya stated he received guarantees from the US and mediators. “The war is over,” he declared.
Israel’s cabinet met to approve the pact, setting a 24-hour start timeline.
Deal Terms Outlined
The ceasefire halts fighting. Israel will pull back partially from Gaza.
Hamas will release all remaining hostages for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Trump said releases begin early next week.
Aid Trucks to Enter Gaza
Fleets of trucks will deliver food and medical supplies to Gaza. Hundreds of thousands, living in tents after home destruction, will receive relief. The deal addresses famine in the territory.
Challenges Ahead
Full implementation is uncertain. A Palestinian official noted the prisoner list isn’t final. Hamas seeks prominent detainees.
Trump’s 20-point plan’s next phases, like Gaza governance, remain undiscussed.
Coalition Skepticism
Netanyahu faces opposition from far-right allies. Itamar Ben-Gvir threatened to topple the government unless Hamas disarms.
Bezalel Smotrich insisted on Hamas’s destruction post-hostage return.
Celebrations in Gaza
In Khan Younis, Abdul Majeed Abd Rabbo rejoiced. “Thank God for peace,” he said. “Gaza, Arabs, and the world celebrate.”
In Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, Einav Zaugauker wept with joy for her son Matan.
Final Attacks Before Pause
Israeli strikes continued pre-ceasefire, killing four in Gaza City and three elsewhere, per local reports. The army targeted militants, but civilians suffered.
Smoke grenades signaled troop pullbacks.
Hostage Release Timeline
Israel’s spokesperson said the ceasefire starts 24 hours after approval. Hostages will be freed within 72 hours.
Hamas noted recovering bodies may take longer. Twenty are believed alive, 26 dead, two missing.
Trump’s Regional Plans
Trump plans a Sunday Egypt trip for a signing ceremony.
Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana invited him to address parliament, the first since 2008. Trump hopes for “everlasting peace.”
Diplomatic Achievement
The deal, backed by Arab and Western nations, is a win for Trump. His envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner attended Netanyahu’s cabinet meeting. It advances reconciliation in the Middle East.
Paris Talks on Reconstruction
Western and Arab leaders met in Paris for Gaza’s future. Discussions covered peacekeeping and rebuilding.
The deal could ease Israel’s isolation and end regional involvement from Iran, Yemen, and Lebanon.
Netanyahu’s Victory Claim
Netanyahu hailed the pact as a “diplomatic triumph.” It aligns with Israel’s goals, he said, despite coalition doubts. The agreement tests his leadership in a divided government.
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