After nearly two years of devastating war in Gaza, Israel’s Cabinet backs a Trump-brokered ceasefire and hostage deal, raising cautious hopes for peace amid deep political and humanitarian challenges.
In a major diplomatic breakthrough, Israel’s Cabinet has approved an “outline” of a deal to release the remaining hostages held by Hamas and begin steps toward a ceasefire in Gaza, marking what could be the first real step toward ending a two-year conflict that has shaken the Middle East.
The decision, announced early Friday, follows intense negotiations mediated by the Trump administration and regional allies in Cairo. While details remain incomplete, the move signals that both sides may finally be inching closer to ending a war that has killed tens of thousands and displaced millions.
A Fragile Path to Peace
According to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, the Cabinet approved the “outline” of the deal, though key issues — including Hamas disarmament, Gaza’s future governance, and Israeli troop withdrawal — remain unresolved.
The broader ceasefire plan includes provisions for releasing all hostages, freeing around 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, and reopening key border crossings, including Rafah, to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Khalil Al-Hayya, a senior Hamas negotiator, said the agreement represents “an end to the war and aggression” and will allow Palestinians to focus on achieving self-determination and establishing a Palestinian state.
Two Years of War and Loss
The Israel–Hamas war, which began on October 7, 2023, after Hamas’ surprise attack killed 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, has devastated the region. Since then, over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 170,000 wounded, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry.
Even as the Cabinet voted, Israeli airstrikes continued in parts of northern Gaza. A strike in Gaza City killed two people and left dozens trapped under rubble, underscoring the fragile nature of the truce.
Despite the violence, cautious celebrations broke out in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, where families of hostages expressed relief and hope. “We are so excited this morning,” said Sharon Canot, a relative of one captive. “It’s been two years that we are in horror.”
In southern Gaza, the mood was more somber. “We lost loved ones, our homes, everything,” said Mohammad Al-Farra from Khan Younis. “We are happy about the ceasefire, but afraid of what comes next.”
U.S. and Global Role
Under the plan, around 200 U.S. troops will deploy to Israel as part of an international monitoring mission to oversee the ceasefire and ensure both sides comply. The United Nations has also prepared 170,000 tons of aid and medical supplies to flow into Gaza once borders reopen.
The Trump plan envisions an international security force in Gaza, a gradual Israeli withdrawal, and a massive reconstruction effort funded by global donors. The Palestinian Authority could eventually return to govern Gaza — though this remains politically contentious.
What Comes Next for Netanyahu
Politically, the deal could reshape Benjamin Netanyahu’s future. Long embattled by corruption charges and pressure from far-right allies, Netanyahu now faces both praise and criticism. While Trump suggested the deal boosted Netanyahu’s popularity — saying, “People shouldn’t run against him right now” — hardliners within Israel’s coalition remain wary of any concessions to Hamas.
As the ceasefire takes shape, questions linger: Will it hold? And can both sides turn this fragile truce into a lasting peace after years of bloodshed?
For now, families on both sides cling to a rare feeling — hope.