Hamas and Israel Reach Agreement on First Phase of Trump’s Peace Plan: Hostages Expected by Monday, Trump May Visit Egypt for Next Negotiation Stage

Trump wrote on social media:

“This means that all of the hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw troops to an agreed line as the first steps toward a strong, durable, and lasting peace. All parties will be treated fairly!”

The breakthrough followed indirect talks in Egypt and comes just a day after the second anniversary of Hamas’ attack on Israel. Negotiators from the US, Israel, Egypt, and Qatar have been working on Trump’s 20-point peace plan, which includes a hostages-for-ceasefire arrangement. Officials emphasized that this agreement is only the initial stage, with further phases expected to address long-term security and humanitarian issues in Gaza.

Hostage Release and Israeli Troop Withdrawal

According to Hamas, the agreement involves an Israeli withdrawal from parts of Gaza and the release of hostages in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees. Key issues, such as Gaza’s governance and Hamas’ demilitarisation, remain unresolved and will be addressed in future negotiations in Egypt.

The Israel Defense Forces are preparing to pull back troops as part of the deal. Trump shared a map showing the withdrawal line, with areas like Rafah, the Philadelphia Corridor, and parts of Beit Hanun remaining under Israeli security control, while Gaza City and surrounding refugee camps will see a partial withdrawal at this stage.

Trump May Visit Egypt to Finalize Deal

Trump indicated he may travel to Egypt this weekend to finalize the hostages-for-ceasefire deal, describing the agreement as “very close” to completion. He thanked Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for mediating, calling it “a great day for Arabs, Israel, America, and the surrounding countries.”

Israeli Government and Netanyahu’s Response

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the agreement, calling it “a great day for Israel.” On X (formerly Twitter), he stated:

“Tomorrow I will convene the government to approve the agreement and bring all our dear hostages home.”

Netanyahu also thanked Israel’s security forces and President Trump for their efforts in brokering the deal.

Outstanding Issues and Continued Negotiations

Despite the breakthrough, crucial matters remain unresolved, including whether Hamas will surrender its weapons and relinquish control over Gaza, as outlined in Trump’s peace framework. US officials confirmed that negotiations will continue in Egypt, shaping the next phases of the agreement.

This first-phase deal represents a step toward ceasefire and long-term resolution, following two years of intense conflict that caused thousands of casualties and widespread destruction in Gaza.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the agreement, emphasizing its importance for regional peace and stability.