Payam Javan: In a landmark diplomatic breakthrough, Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement to release hostages and initiate steps toward ending the two-year conflict in Gaza. The accord, part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point Gaza peace plan, stipulates the release of all remaining hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Israel’s phased withdrawal of military forces from the region. Hamas has also agreed to relinquish control over the Gaza Strip, marking a major step toward de-escalation after years of hostilities.
Announcing the deal on Truth Social, President Trump described the agreement as the “first phase” of a broader peace plan aimed at achieving a “strong, durable, and everlasting peace.” He credited mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for facilitating the talks, calling the day “historic” for the Middle East and the world. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu hailed the agreement as a “great day for Israel,” expressing gratitude to Trump and confirming that his government will meet to ratify the deal and ensure the return of hostages.
Hamas issued a statement thanking the mediating nations and the United States for their role in the negotiations. The group emphasized the importance of full Israeli withdrawal and urged international parties to ensure compliance with the terms. Trump later told Reuters that “the whole world has come together on this one,” describing the deal as “a great day for humanity.” He also confirmed plans to travel to the Middle East, possibly visiting Egypt, where indirect talks between the parties have been ongoing.
Under Trump’s peace plan, Gaza will be governed temporarily by an apolitical Palestinian technocratic committee, overseen by an international “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump and including global figures such as former British Prime Minister Tony Blair. The plan also calls for the destruction of all militant infrastructure, a humanitarian aid surge, and future discussions on Palestinian self-determination. Both Trump and Netanyahu affirmed that Hamas will have no role in Gaza’s future governance, signaling a potential new chapter in Middle East relations.
