Thu Oct 09 06:44:00 UTC 2025: **Headline: Israel and Hamas Agree to First Phase of Gaza Ceasefire, Brokered by US**
**Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt** – In a major breakthrough, Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a ceasefire agreement, based on a 20-point plan put forward by United States President Donald Trump. The announcement followed days of intense, indirect negotiations held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, with key mediators from Qatar, Turkey, Egypt, and the US playing pivotal roles.
President Trump announced the agreement on his Truth Social platform, stating it will lead to the release of all hostages and an Israeli troop withdrawal. Under the agreement, Hamas will release 20 living Israeli captives and the bodies of 28 deceased captives. In exchange, Israel will release over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including those arrested since October 2023.
Both sides have confirmed the agreement, though differing interpretations of the plan’s full implementation remain.
World leaders are celebrating the deal as a critical step towards de-escalation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the agreement and urged full adherence to its terms, stressing the need for a permanent ceasefire and the immediate delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
“I commend the diplomatic efforts of the United States, Qatar, Egypt and Turkey in brokering this desperately needed breakthrough,” Guterres said.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed he will convene the government to approve the agreement, thanking Trump for his dedication and Israeli soldiers for their courage. Hamas also expressed appreciation for the mediation efforts and called on all parties to ensure Israel fulfills its obligations.
Trump has indicated he may travel to Egypt soon. He claims the world will see “people getting along and Gaza will be rebuilt” once the agreement is put in place.
While the ceasefire has yet to take effect, the announcement has been met with cautious optimism and hopes for a lasting peace in the region.
First Piper 