Israel Approves Trump-Brokered Gaza Ceasefire: A Fragile Truce and Hostage Deal

In a dramatic turn in the Gaza conflict, Israel’s cabinet has formally endorsed former President Donald Trump’s ceasefire blueprint, opening a path toward ending the two-year war and securing the release of hostages held by Hamas.

Under the plan’s first phase, Israel would withdraw troops to predefined lines within 24 hours, while Hamas is expected to release the remaining Israeli hostages, some 48 in total, within 72 hours of the truce’s start. In exchange, Israel would free approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners and enable humanitarian corridors and aid delivery to Gaza.

To oversee compliance, the United States will deploy about 200 troops to Israel (but not into Gaza), alongside a joint coordination center and an international monitoring contingent.

Mixed Reactions and Deep Challenges Ahead
The initial reactions have ranged from relief to skepticism. In Gaza and Israeli towns alike, citizens cautiously welcomed the deal. Families of hostages visibly celebrated.

Yet, the deal’s outline leaves many questions unresolved. Hamas has committed to disarmament only conditionally. The governance structure of Gaza post-ceasefire is unsettled. Israel’s far-right political factions remain wary of compromises.

Analysts caution that this is no guaranteed peace, but rather a tenuous pause in a brutal conflict. The coming days, and whether both parties honor their commitments will determine whether this agreement becomes a real turning point.