A significant development has taken place toward ending the two-year-long conflict in Gaza. According to sources, after initial agreement between Israel and Hamas on a ceasefire, the first phase of the agreement has come into effect today, while formal signing is expected within a few hours.
U.S. President Donald Trump stated, “Israel and Hamas have agreed on the first phase of the Gaza Peace Plan, which includes the release of all hostages, partial military withdrawal, and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid.”
Washington said this peace plan represents “the first step toward a sustainable ceasefire,” although U.S. officials warned that disarmament of Hamas and the relinquishment of its administrative control over Gaza would be the biggest challenges in subsequent phases.
According to media reports, the Egyptian broadcaster Al QaheraTV claimed that the ceasefire came into effect at 2:00 PM Pakistani time. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs described it as an “important diplomatic achievement,” noting that the talks in Sharm El-Sheikh could mark a new turning point for the region.
Meanwhile, the office of the Israeli Prime Minister announced that the ceasefire will be formally implemented from this evening after approval by the Israeli cabinet. Sources said that Hamas is expected to initially release 20 hostages, while Israel will complete a partial withdrawal from northern Gaza within 24 hours.
Professor Khurshid Ahmed from the Department of International Relations at Peshawar University said, “This agreement is the first step in implementing Trump’s 20-point plan. Although several points remain unclear between the two sides, this development raises hope that a path to peace can emerge after a prolonged war.”
He added that disagreements remain over Hamas’ disarmament, the framework for prisoner exchanges, and Gaza’s governance structure. “All of these issues require time and trust,” he noted.
Former White House Press Secretary Ari Fleischer called the agreement “historic and extraordinary,” stating, “In the past, Israel’s peace agreements were with Egypt, Jordan, and the Gulf countries, but a direct agreement with Hamas is happening for the first time.” According to him, eight Muslim countries, including seven Arab states and Turkey along with the U.S. and Israel, are involved in this development.
Pakistan welcomed the first phase of the agreement, praising the diplomatic efforts of President Trump, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. According to the Foreign Office, “Pakistan hopes that this development will pave the way for a permanent ceasefire and lasting peace in the Middle East.”
Global leaders, including the UN Secretary-General, Turkey, Jordan, Qatar, and Pakistan, also described the agreement as historic and welcome. Citizens in Gaza and Khan Yunis expressed joy over the ceasefire news by taking to the streets.
