MWE Correspondent
U.S. President Donald Trump announced on October 8, 2025, that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan aimed at ending the prolonged conflict in Gaza.
The initial agreement includes the release of all hostages held by Hamas and the withdrawal of Israeli troops to a designated line, marking a critical step toward a lasting ceasefire.
The announcement was made on Trump’s social media platform, where he described the accord as a “historic success,” crediting mediation efforts by Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey. The deal is part of a broader peace initiative that addresses key issues, including prisoner exchanges, the safe return of hostages, and the establishment of a transitional governance structure in Gaza.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the agreement, pledging to seek government approval and emphasizing that the deal aims to ensure the safe return of all hostages.
The conflict, which erupted on October 7, 2023, has caused over 67,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza, while the initial Hamas attack resulted in around 1,200 Israeli deaths and the abduction of 251 hostages.
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The current deal includes the release of 20 remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, alongside Israel’s planned withdrawal from most of Gaza.
While celebrations erupted in Gaza and Israel, some Palestinians remain skeptical due to previous failed ceasefires. Humanitarian groups are calling for immediate aid and reconstruction to address the severe humanitarian crisis. The success of this first phase will be crucial for potentially ending hostilities and progressing toward a lasting two-state solution.
The international community has welcomed the agreement, with leaders from Europe, Turkey, Japan, and the UN praising the breakthrough. Some observers have even suggested that Trump’s efforts could be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize.
