Gaza — A US-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is expected to be signed today, Thursday, October 9, 2025, in Egypt, marking the beginning of what mediators describe as the “first phase” of a broader peace framework.
The deal, facilitated by the United States with support from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, includes terms for a pause in hostilities, a large-scale hostage and prisoner exchange, and increased humanitarian access to Gaza.
Ceasefire Terms: The First Phase
Immediate Pause in Fighting
Both sides have agreed to an immediate ceasefire, halting ongoing combat operations across Gaza and Israel’s southern border. The truce is expected to take effect within hours of the official signing ceremony in Cairo.
Hostage and Prisoner Exchange
As part of the agreement:
- Hamas will release all 20 Israeli hostages believed to be alive. Their release could begin within 72 hours of the deal taking effect.
- Israel will free approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including around 250 serving life sentences and 1,700 detainees arrested since the war began on October 7, 2023.
This exchange, if implemented as outlined, would represent one of the largest such swaps since the conflict’s escalation two years ago.
Troop Withdrawal
Israel has agreed to a phased pullback of its military forces inside Gaza. The first step involves a withdrawal to a mutually “agreed upon line”, though specifics about this boundary have not been disclosed.
Military analysts note this could be a critical step toward de-escalation, depending on compliance and verification mechanisms.
Humanitarian and Civilian Provisions
The ceasefire includes commitments to:
- Allow a significant increase in humanitarian aid entering Gaza through monitored crossings.
- Enable displaced Palestinian civilians to return to their homes in areas cleared of fighting.
Humanitarian organizations have welcomed the move, calling it an essential step toward addressing Gaza’s worsening crisis.
Next Steps in the Peace Framework
Officials familiar with the negotiations emphasized that this agreement represents only the first stage of a multi-phase peace plan.
The current deal focuses on urgent humanitarian and security issues, while leaving longer-term political questions unresolved including the future governance of Gaza, demilitarization of Hamas, and the status of a Palestinian state.
Subsequent negotiation rounds are expected to address these topics in greater detail over the coming months.
Implementation Timeline
The signing ceremony is expected to take place around midday local time in Egypt. According to Israeli officials, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will convene the Israeli Cabinet today to approve the final terms before formal implementation begins.
In Gaza, local reports suggest that community leaders and families of detainees are preparing for the first stage of the prisoner releases, which could commence by this weekend.
International Reaction
The ceasefire has drawn swift global responses:
- US President Donald Trump praised the deal as a “historic and unprecedented event”, calling it the “first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace.” He credited Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their mediation roles.
- UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the announcement, urging all parties to “abide fully by the terms” and stressing the need for a permanent ceasefire to prevent renewed violence.
- The European Union described the development as a “significant breakthrough”, applauding diplomatic efforts and emphasizing the importance of sustained dialogue.
Scenes on the Ground
Reports from both sides indicate widespread relief and cautious optimism.
- In Gaza, residents reportedly celebrated the announcement, with fireworks and public gatherings marking the potential end of months of bombardment.
- In Israel, families of hostages expressed hope that the ceasefire would lead to their loved ones’ safe return.
Despite the positive reactions, analysts warn that previous ceasefires have faltered over disagreements on verification and follow-up stages.
Challenges Ahead
While the agreement represents a diplomatic milestone, experts note that implementation will be complex.
Trust between the two parties remains low, and enforcement mechanisms are still being finalized.
Observers point out that Hamas’s willingness to participate in future disarmament discussions and Israel’s readiness to ease its blockade will determine whether this ceasefire can evolve into a sustainable peace process.
Conclusion
The signing of the US-brokered ceasefire marks a rare moment of progress in one of the world’s most enduring conflicts.
If successfully implemented, it could open the door to broader negotiations addressing political status, security arrangements, and long-term coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians.
For now, the focus remains on ensuring that the guns fall silent and that aid reaches civilians who have endured years of hardship.
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