Israel Approves Trump Peace Plan and Begins Gaza Ceasefire

The Israeli government approved the first phase of a U.S.-led peace plan proposed by Donald Trump, initiating a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip on Friday morning. Under the agreement, the Israel Defense Forces have begun a partial withdrawal, including leaving Gaza City, though they maintain control over approximately 53% of the enclave. The deal facilitates a humanitarian surge of 600 aid lorries daily.

The agreement centers on a complex exchange. Israel is releasing approximately 1,600 to 1,700 detainees and 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life terms, including individuals convicted of severe crimes such as the 2000 Ramallah lynching and various suicide bombings. However, Israel denied Hamas's demands to release high-profile prisoners including Marwan Barghouti and Ahmad Saadat. In return, 48 hostages—some believed to be deceased—will be transferred via the Red Cross to Israeli military bases.

While the first phase focuses on these exchanges, the second phase aims for the demilitarization of Gaza and the establishment of a joint transitional authority. The long-term stability of the truce remains uncertain, as reports indicate Hamas refuses to disarm.