Israel and Hamas Agree on the First Phase of the Gaza Peace Plan: Trump Announces Historic Breakthrough

The long-awaited peace efforts in the Middle East have taken a major step forward as Israel and Hamas reached an agreement on the first phase of the Gaza peace plan. The announcement was made by former U.S. President Donald Trump on Truth Social, marking a potential turning point in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Both sides have officially confirmed the deal.

Trump wrote, “I am pleased to report that the first phase of our peace plan has been approved by both Israel and Hamas. This agreement represents the beginning of a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace — Israel will withdraw its troops to a predetermined line, and all hostages will be released very soon.” He added that the day marked “a great moment for the Arab and Muslim World, Israel, all neighboring nations, and the United States.” Trump also thanked Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for mediating this historic peace agreement.

Hamas Confirms Agreement and Calls for Implementation

In a statement released Wednesday, Hamas confirmed it had reached an agreement with Israel through discussions in Sharm el-Sheikh. The statement read, “Following responsible and serious negotiations between the Palestinian resistance factions and the movement regarding President Trump’s proposal, we have reached an understanding that includes an end to the war on Gaza, the withdrawal of occupation forces, the entry of humanitarian aid, and a prisoner exchange.”

Hamas called on President Trump, the guarantor states, and international stakeholders to ensure Israel adheres fully to the terms of the agreement.

Netanyahu Confirms Deal, Praises Trump’s Role

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also confirmed the agreement on social media platform X, calling it “a fantastic day for Israel.” He announced plans to convene the Israeli government to ratify the deal and secure the release of hostages. “I thank President Trump and his team for their sacred mission to bring our people home,” Netanyahu said.

Netanyahu also invited Trump to address the Knesset following their discussions. Meanwhile, the Hostages and Missing Families Forum expressed “hope, excitement, and concern” over the possible release of their loved ones. The group praised the agreement, emphasizing that it would ensure both living captives and deceased individuals are returned to their families with dignity. According to the organization, 48 captives remain unaccounted for, with Israel confirming that 20 are still alive.

Global Leaders Welcome the Agreement

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the breakthrough, saying, “The UN will fully support the implementation of this agreement and increase the flow of humanitarian aid and reconstruction in Gaza.” He emphasized the significance of the deal, stating, “The stakes have never been higher.”

Trump had previously hinted that he might visit the Middle East to oversee progress but did not confirm specific destinations. Speaking to reporters, he said, “I might visit that place at the end of the week, possibly on Sunday.” When pressed, he acknowledged, “I’ll be going to Egypt, most likely, where everyone is gathered right now.”

Behind-the-Scenes Negotiations in Egypt

At the White House, Secretary of State Marco Rubio handed Trump a note during a press briefing, indicating that a deal was imminent. “We’re very close to a deal in the Middle East, and they’re going to need me pretty quickly,” Trump remarked.

Hamas expressed optimism earlier in the day, revealing that they had submitted a list of Palestinian prisoners to be exchanged under the U.S.-backed plan. One of the key elements of Trump’s 20-point peace proposal includes the release of 1,950 Palestinian detainees and captives held in Gaza.

International Response and Upcoming Talks

Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi, who is hosting the negotiations, called the development “very encouraging.” His efforts in Sharm el-Sheikh have been crucial to facilitating dialogue between the parties. Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff and his son-in-law Jared Kushner have been participating in the talks alongside Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed Abdulrahman Al Thani.

Meanwhile, a French diplomatic source confirmed that a follow-up meeting to discuss Gaza’s long-term future will be held in Paris on Thursday. Representatives from the European Union, United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Spain, Qatar, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan, Canada, and Turkey are expected to attend. The United States, however, will not send representatives to this meeting.

Qatar Seeks Guarantees for Gaza’s Future

Majed al-Ansari, spokesperson for Qatar’s Foreign Ministry, told Saudi news outlet Al-Hadath that Qatar expects firm guarantees—particularly from the U.S.—that the agreement will lead to a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, greater humanitarian access, and a permanent ceasefire. “Wednesday will undoubtedly be a pivotal day in determining these details,” he said.

Tensions Remain Amid the Peace Push

While peace efforts gain momentum, tensions remain high. Israeli Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir called for “complete victory” over Hamas during a visit to Jerusalem’s Temple Mount, challenging long-standing restrictions on non-Muslim worship there.

Despite diplomatic progress, Israel continues its offensive in Gaza. Since the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks that killed 1,200 Israelis and saw 251 taken hostage, Israel’s military response has left over 67,000 Palestinians dead and much of Gaza in ruins.

Humanitarian Toll and Global Reaction

Israelis gathered this week to commemorate the second anniversary of the October 7 attacks, mourning over 370 victims of the Nova music festival massacre. Across Gaza, Palestinians marked two years of war and displacement. Many, like Alaa Abu Daraz and her children, continue to live on the streets. “Our children are without tents or blankets. The winter is unbearable,” she told NBC News.

Meanwhile, Israel’s international standing has come under increased scrutiny. The Israeli Navy recently intercepted a new aid flotilla bound for Gaza, which included several American activists. The Freedom Flotilla Coalition claimed that eight U.S. citizens were “likely abducted” in international waters by Israeli forces, sparking global outrage.

A New Chapter for the Middle East?

With the first phase of the Gaza peace plan now agreed upon, hopes are rising for a lasting ceasefire and the end of one of the most devastating conflicts in recent Memory. As Trump prepares for a possible visit to the region, the world watches closely — wondering if this fragile peace will finally usher in a new era of stability for Israel, Gaza, and the wider Middle East.