A critical ceasefire and hostage agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, following extensive negotiations. This accord represents a long-awaited breakthrough, potentially bringing an end to the two-year conflict in Gaza. However, the situation remains delicate, and there is no guarantee that lasting peace will be achieved.
The pivotal involvement of US President Donald Trump has been a key factor in these renewed diplomatic efforts. By applying significant pressure on both Hamas and Israel, Trump has positioned himself as a central figure in seeking to resolve the conflict, aiming for recognition as the leader who brought an end to the war.
The conflict initially began as Israel’s response to the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths, predominantly civilians, and the taking of 251 hostages. In retaliation, Israel’s military offensive has led to a devastating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with reports of over 67,000 Palestinian casualties, the majority being civilians, including a significant number of children. Much of the territory has been destroyed.
The recently agreed-upon deal constitutes the initial phase of a peace plan that President Trump unveiled alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Netanyahu, who has faced criticism in the past for potentially hindering similar agreements, now appears to be navigating a new dynamic. Trump’s reported impatience with Netanyahu has seemingly leveraged American influence to compel Israel’s engagement in the peace process.
Facing considerable pressure, including the threat of “complete obliteration” from Trump, Hamas has also been compelled to negotiate. The proposed plan has garnered support from Arab and Muslim nations, with significant involvement from Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey in facilitating the discussions.
While the specific terms of the agreement are still being finalized, the outline includes the release of remaining hostages – with an initial group of 20 believed to be alive potentially freed soon, and the remains of up to 28 deceased captives to be returned in stages. Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners are expected to be released in return, Israeli troops are to withdraw from certain areas of Gaza, and humanitarian aid is slated to increase.
The momentum for this deal reportedly gained traction following a failed Israeli operation aimed at neutralizing key Hamas officials involved in negotiations, which had generated significant regional backlash, even from some of Israel’s allies. Trump’s administration appears to have capitalized on this moment.
Trump, who has openly expressed his aspiration for a Nobel Peace Prize, faces an announcement of the award this Friday, a deadline that may have influenced the negotiation timelines. He has described the agreement as a “historic and unprecedented event” and the “first steps toward a strong, durable and everlasting peace.”
Despite this significant development, crucial details, such as the disarmament of Hamas and the extent of Israeli withdrawal, still require resolution. In Gaza, the announcement has been met with celebrations, as people hope for an end to their suffering. Similarly, in Tel Aviv, vigils in Hostages Square have become a focal point for families awaiting news.
Hamas faces a strategic challenge in releasing hostages, as it would diminish its primary leverage in negotiations. The group seeks guarantees against a resumption of hostilities from Israel, a concern amplified by past ceasefire breaches. However, Israel, weary of the prolonged conflict, faces increasing domestic and international pressure to find a resolution, making a return to widespread fighting less likely.
Prime Minister Netanyahu, who has pledged “total victory” against Hamas, must reconcile this promise with the terms of any agreement. While he has hailed the announcement as a “diplomatic and a national and moral victory for the State of Israel,” his statement notably omitted any mention of an end to the war.