Mediated by key Arab and U.S. partners, the deal brings a crucial pause in hostilities after two years of devastating conflict.
All remaining Israeli hostages held by Hamas in Gaza have been released as a long-awaited ceasefire deal took effect on Monday, marking a significant and emotional moment in the months-long conflict. The truce, which began at 12:00 PM local time, was paired with a major exchange of prisoners and signaled the most hopeful step toward peace since the war began.
The devastating, two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas has reached a critical, hopeful turning point as a comprehensive ceasefire deal took effect, accompanied by the release of all remaining Israeli hostages held in Gaza.
The deal, mediated by key regional and international actors including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, simultaneously triggered the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. This breakthrough follows months of quiet diplomacy aimed at ending a war that has resulted in more than 67,000 Palestinian deaths and the near-total displacement of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents.
The immediate relief is tangible, with massive aid convoys now entering Gaza to address the catastrophic humanitarian crisis, including widespread famine. However, the path forward remains highly complex. While the agreement secures a pause in fighting, deep divisions persist over the long-term political resolution, post-war governance of Gaza, and establishing security guarantees for all parties involved. The successful exchange has created diplomatic momentum, but experts caution that this is merely a critical first step toward achieving a sustainable peace.
