Israel has approved a landmark hostage release deal with Hamas, marking a potential turning point in a conflict that has ravaged Gaza for over two years. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed on Friday that the government had “approved the framework for the release of all the hostages both the living and the deceased.”
The agreement, reached in Egypt after weeks of negotiations, follows a 20-point peace plan for Gaza unveiled by U.S. President Donald Trump last month. The deal is expected to take effect within 24 hours, with the release of the remaining 47 hostages including 25 declared dead set to occur within 72 hours.
Under the agreement, Israel will gradually withdraw its forces from Gaza, while Hamas is expected to begin disarmament in a second phase of the peace process. The plan also calls for a transitional authority for Gaza, a proposal that has drawn sharp criticism from Palestinian factions, including the Palestinian Authority.
Despite internal opposition, including National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir’s rejection of the prisoner swap as “an unbearable heavy price,” the deal received broad approval. Hamas has demanded the release of 1,950 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences.
Celebrations erupted across Israel and Gaza as news of the agreement spread. “Tears of joy flowed,” said Samer Joudeh, a displaced Gazan, reflecting on years of suffering. In Tel Aviv, thousands gathered in solidarity with the families of the hostages, waving Israeli and U.S. flags.
U.S. Central Command will oversee the truce through a multinational team based in the Middle East, though no American troops are expected to enter Gaza.
While explosions were still reported in parts of Gaza late Thursday, leaders on both sides expressed cautious optimism that this deal could finally end the devastating conflict and open a path toward lasting peace.
