By The Blogging Hounds
Israel has announced that all parties have signed the first phase of a U.S.-brokered Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal, a critical step toward ending a conflict that has killed tens of thousands since Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel. The agreement, finalized in Egypt, follows a 20-point peace plan outlined last month by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ceasefire and Hostage Release Timeline
According to Israeli government sources, the first phase calls for the release of all hostages—both living and deceased—within 72 hours of the agreement, potentially by Monday or Tuesday. Trump indicated he might travel to Egypt to witness the signing and possibly visit Gaza.
“The final draft of phase one was signed this morning in Egypt by all parties to release all the hostages,” Israeli government spokeswoman Shosh Bedrosian confirmed. Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza and the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners are included in the deal, alongside a surge of humanitarian aid into the territory, currently facing famine.
Hamas Exchange and Prisoner Release
Hamas has reportedly submitted a list of Palestinian prisoners for release in this first phase, totaling nearly 2,000 individuals, including 250 serving life sentences and 1,700 others detained since the war began. High-profile Fatah leader Marwan Barghouti will not be part of the initial release, according to Bedrosian. Hamas is expected to exchange 20 living hostages for these prisoners simultaneously.
Cabinet Approval Delayed
As of late afternoon October 9, Israel’s security cabinet and full government have not officially ratified the deal. While the security cabinet met earlier, the full cabinet vote—necessary for implementation—has been postponed. Reports suggest the vote could occur late tonight Israel time, potentially delaying the ceasefire’s formal activation. Once approved, the ceasefire is expected to take effect within 24 hours.
Israeli military strikes in Gaza have continued at a reduced pace while approval is pending, and international mediators, including the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, are urging swift action.
Public Reactions
The announcement has sparked emotional responses on both sides. In Gaza, displaced residents expressed “tears of joy” at the news, while in Israel, thousands gathered in Tel Aviv waving U.S. and Israeli flags and holding photos of hostages.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged to bring hostages home “with God’s help,” while Arab leaders, including Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, expressed hope that the ceasefire could lead to a permanent resolution.
Context and Impact
The deal comes as Israel approaches the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, which killed 1,219 people, mostly civilians. Israeli retaliatory strikes have killed at least 67,183 in Gaza, with over half women and children, according to local health authorities.
Pressure for a resolution has intensified following international criticism, including UN accusations of genocide, which Israel has rejected as “distorted and false.” Hamas has also faced accusations of war crimes and crimes against humanity.
Next Steps
- Full Cabinet Vote: Expected late tonight Israel time (potentially early October 10).
- Ceasefire Activation: Within 24 hours of cabinet approval, likely Friday evening or early Saturday Israel time.
- Hostage Release: Earliest expected Monday, more likely Tuesday, contingent on full cabinet ratification and prisoner transfer logistics.
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