Israel and Hamas agreed to a long-awaited cease-fire and hostage deal, marking the first phase of President Donald Trump’s plan to end the Gaza war that has killed more than 67,000 people and reshaped the Middle East.
The breakthrough was greeted with joy and relief but also caution because uncertainty remains about aspects of the broader peace plan advanced by the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump – such as whether Israel will keep its commitments, how Hamas will disarm and who will govern Gaza.
But the sides appear closer than they have been in months to ending Israel's genocidal war that has over 67,000 Palestinians, reduced much of Gaza to rubble, brought famine to parts of the territory, and left dozens of hostages, living and dead, in Gaza.
The war began with the Hamas Oct. 7, 2023, incursion, but also triggered other conflicts in the region, sparked worldwide protests and led to what rights groups and experts call genocide in Gaza by Israel.
Even with the agreement expected to be signed later in the day, Israeli strikes continued, with explosions seen Thursday in northern Gaza. There were no immediate reports of damage or casualties.
