GAZA – Israel’s government has approved the first phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, clearing the path for an exchange of captives and a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from the Gaza Strip.
The decision, confirmed early Friday after a cabinet vote, is expected to bring fighting to a halt within 24 hours, offering a rare moment of hope in a conflict that has devastated Gaza for a year.
Under the deal, Hamas has 72 hours to release Israeli captives — both living and deceased — in exchange for Israel freeing Palestinians serving life sentences as well as detainees from Gaza.
End of the War ‘Completely’ — Hamas Official
Khalil al-Hayya, who heads Hamas’s negotiating team, said the group received assurances from the United States and other mediators that the initial phase signifies the end of the war.
“We were told the war in Gaza has ended completely,” he said.
The agreement forms part of the first stage of U.S. President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan.
Israeli forces are expected to pull back to a line controlling about 53% of Gaza, with two further withdrawal phases planned.
To oversee the truce, the United States will deploy around 200 troops to Israel to help coordinate a multinational monitoring force intended to prevent renewed hostilities.
Divisions Within Netanyahu’s Cabinet
Despite the breakthrough, deep political divisions remain within Israel’s ruling coalition.
Far-right ministers, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, opposed the deal, warning it would allow Hamas to reassert control over Gaza.
Ben-Gvir had earlier told Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that he would not back any government “that will allow Hamas rule to continue.”
Ahead of the vote, Netanyahu thanked President Trump for mediating the truce but faced criticism at home for allegedly prolonging the conflict for political survival.
Heavy Human Cost
The conflict, which erupted after Hamas’s October 7, 2023 attacks, has exacted a catastrophic toll.
According to Gaza’s health authorities, at least 67,194 people have been killed and 169,890 injured, with thousands more believed buried beneath the rubble.
In Israel, 1,139 people were killed and about 200 taken captive during the initial assault.
While the ceasefire marks a significant step toward ending hostilities, diplomats caution that the broader framework for a lasting peace — including Gaza’s postwar governance and security arrangements — remains uncertain.
