Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Deal: Agreement to End Gaza War and Exchange Hostages for Prisoners

Hamas is expected to release the 20 living hostages together, 72 hours after the ceasefire begins.

Exiled Gaza chief Khalil Al-Hayya announced on Thursday that Hamas has secured guarantees from the United States, Arab mediators, and Turkey confirming the permanent end of the Gaza war.

Israel and Hamas signed an agreement on Thursday implementing a ceasefire and prisoner exchange, marking the initial phase of U.S. President Donald Trump's initiative to end the two-year conflict that has destabilized the Middle East.

The agreement stipulates an immediate cessation of hostilities, partial Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and Hamas releasing all 48 remaining hostages captured during the attack that triggered the war, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. At the White House, Trump expressed confidence that this deal would lead to "lasting peace."

According to the terms, Hamas will release the 20 surviving hostages collectively, 72 hours following the ceasefire implementation.

Hayya, who survived an Israeli assassination attempt targeting Hamas leadership in Qatar one month ago, stated that the agreement effectively ends the Gaza war, reopens a crucial crossing with Egypt, and includes Israel's release of all imprisoned Palestinian women and children.

Furthermore, Israel will free 250 Palestinians serving extended sentences in Israeli prisons, along with 1,700 others who have been detained since the conflict began on October 7, 2023, according to Hayya.