Israel and Hamas Agree on Ceasefire and Hostage Exchange to End Two-Year Conflict

On October 9, 2025, Israel and Hamas reached a ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement, marking a significant step toward ending the two-year conflict in Gaza. The deal, brokered with the assistance of the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, entails Israel's partial military withdrawal from Gaza, Hamas releasing all remaining hostages, and Israel freeing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. This agreement follows indirect negotiations held in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The ceasefire will take effect after ratification by Israel’s government. Over 67,000 Palestinians have been killed since the conflict began in October 2023, following a deadly Hamas attack that left 1,200 Israelis dead and 251 taken hostage.

The conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a deadly attack on southern Israel, resulting in over 1,200 Israeli deaths and 250 hostages. In response, Israel initiated a military campaign in Gaza, leading to significant casualties and destruction. Gaza’s Health Ministry reports more than 67,000 Palestinians killed and over 169,000 injured during the war.

The agreement involves freeing the remaining hostages held by Hamas (20 of 48 believed alive) in exchange for nearly 2,000 Palestinian detainees, including 250 serving long sentences. Israel will begin a gradual withdrawal from parts of Gaza, although its forces are expected to maintain a presence in specific areas, with international troops—mainly from Arab and Muslim nations—taking up security responsibilities. Concerns remain over implementation details: the future governance of Gaza, Hamas’ potential disarmament, and whether figures like Marwan Barghouti will be released. The deal is part of a broader peace plan led by President Trump, who is expected to visit the region soon and spearhead a major reconstruction effort.

The announcement has prompted celebrations across Gaza and Israel. Food and medical aid deliveries are planned for displaced Gazans, many of whom lost their homes. While hailed as a diplomatic win for U.S. President Donald Trump, key issues remain unresolved, including Gaza’s future governance and the disarmament of Hamas. Despite ongoing Israeli strikes before the ceasefire takes hold, the agreement has gained international support from Western and Arab nations. Far-right elements in Israel’s government remain opposed, vowing to oppose the deal but not to collapse the coalition. President Trump is expected to visit Israel as the hostages begin returning home.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres welcomed the ceasefire and hostage release agreement, describing it as a significant step toward Palestinian self-determination and a two-state solution. He urged all parties to seize the opportunity to end the occupation and move forward with credible political progress. Guterres emphasized the urgent need for full humanitarian access to Gaza, which faces a severe crisis following Israel's military campaign. He praised the efforts of the U.S., Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey in facilitating the agreement and called for a permanent ceasefire, affirming the UN’s readiness to support aid delivery and recovery efforts.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the agreement and pledged to gain governmental approval, while Hamas confirmed the deal involves ending hostilities, Israeli withdrawal, humanitarian aid entry, and a prisoner exchange.

While the agreement marks a significant step toward peace, several critical issues remain unresolved:

• Gaza’s Future Governance: The agreement does not specify who will govern Gaza post-conflict, leaving a power vacuum that could lead to instability.

• Disarmament of Hamas: The deal does not address the disarmament of Hamas, raising concerns about the potential for future hostilities.

• Implementation Details: The logistics of the prisoner exchange, the timeline for Israeli withdrawal, and the role of international troops require further clarification.

Ceasefire agreements between Israel and Hamas have occurred in the past, often brokered by international mediators. However, these agreements have frequently been short-lived, with hostilities resuming due to unresolved underlying issues. The current agreement is notable for its comprehensive scope, including significant prisoner exchanges and international involvement, which may contribute to its durability.

The ceasefire and hostage exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas represents a pivotal moment in the longstanding conflict. While it offers hope for peace and humanitarian relief, the success of the agreement hinges on addressing unresolved issues and ensuring effective implementation. The international community's role will be crucial in supporting both parties toward a sustainable and peaceful resolution.