In a landmark announcement, U.S. President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan brokered with his involvement.
The deal, Trump said, marks a significant step toward what he described as “a strong, durable, and everlasting peace” in the region.
Trump highlighted that under the agreement, all hostages currently held by Hamas will be released “very soon,” while Israeli troops will withdraw to a pre-determined line as part of the initial phase.
The former president emphasized that all parties involved would be treated fairly.
“This is a great day for the Arab and Muslim world, Israel, all surrounding nations, and the United States of America,” Trump stated.
He extended gratitude to Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their roles in facilitating the negotiations, calling the event “historic and unprecedented.”
The announcement comes amid years of tension and sporadic conflict between Israel and Hamas, the militant group controlling Gaza.
Trump described the agreement as a major diplomatic achievement and praised the mediators, reiterating the biblical notion that “blessed are the peacemakers.”
While details of the troop withdrawal and the timeline for the hostages’ release remain limited, international observers have welcomed the move as a potential turning point for regional stability.
The announcement is expected to spark reactions from world leaders, with attention focused on how both Israel and Hamas will implement the terms of the agreement.
Diplomats from the United States and the Middle East have indicated that ongoing monitoring and engagement will be crucial to ensure the success of this initial peace phase.