Israel and Hamas Sign U.S.-Brokered Peace Agreement in Egypt

On October 9, 2025, Israel and Hamas signed the first phase of a U.S.-brokered peace plan in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, aiming to end over two years of conflict in Gaza. The agreement, facilitated by President Donald Trump, includes an immediate ceasefire, the release of all 20 living Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and the return of the remains of 28 deceased hostages. In exchange, Israel agreed to release approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences and 1,700 detained since the conflict began on October 7, 2023. The deal also stipulates a phased Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza, with forces initially pulling back to an agreed line encompassing about 53% of the territory. Humanitarian aid is set to resume, with key border crossings reopening to facilitate the entry of supplies. An international stabilization force, primarily composed of Arab and Muslim nations, will oversee Gaza's security, while Israel maintains a buffer presence along its border. The U.S. will lead Gaza's reconstruction efforts, and discussions are ongoing regarding the future administrative role of the Palestinian Authority, contingent upon reforms. This agreement marks a significant step toward resolving the prolonged conflict, with global leaders expressing cautious optimism about its potential to foster lasting peace in the region.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has been ongoing for over two years, beginning on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a series of attacks on Israeli territory. This led to a prolonged and devastating Israeli ground offensive in Gaza, resulting in tens of thousands of Palestinian casualties and significant destruction of infrastructure. The international community has been actively seeking a resolution to this conflict, with various peace plans proposed over the years.

The peace plan, announced by President Trump on September 29, 2025, consists of 20 points aimed at ending the conflict and rebuilding Gaza. Key elements include:

• Ceasefire and Hostage Exchange: An immediate cessation of hostilities, with Hamas agreeing to release all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, within 72 hours of Israel's acceptance of the agreement. In return, Israel will release 250 Palestinians serving life sentences and 1,700 Gazans detained since the war began.

• Israeli Military Withdrawal: A phased withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, initially pulling back to an agreed line encompassing about 53% of the territory.

• Humanitarian Aid and Reconstruction: Resumption of humanitarian aid, with key border crossings reopening to facilitate the entry of supplies. The U.S. will lead Gaza's reconstruction efforts, focusing on rebuilding infrastructure and providing economic opportunities for the residents.

• Governance and Security: Establishment of a temporary transitional governance of a technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee responsible for delivering public services. An international stabilization force, primarily composed of Arab and Muslim nations, will oversee Gaza's security, while Israel maintains a buffer presence along its border.

The agreement has garnered mixed reactions from the international community. While many leaders have expressed cautious optimism, some have raised concerns about the plan's implementation and the potential for lasting peace. A historian's analysis highlighted the contrast between President Trump's headline-grabbing theatrics and the substantive diplomacy led by European and Arab leaders, emphasizing that the most difficult steps—securing lasting peace—remain ahead.

Despite the progress, several critical issues remain unresolved:

• Hamas' Disarmament: The plan demands full demilitarization and elimination of militant infrastructure, a condition Hamas resists without firm plans for Palestinian statehood.

• Future Governance of Gaza: The proposed transitional governance and the role of the Palestinian Authority are contentious, with both sides expressing opposition to certain aspects.

• Israeli Troop Withdrawal: While a phased withdrawal is promised, it is dependent on milestones, raising Palestinian fears of a prolonged military presence.

The agreement has significant social and societal implications:

• Humanitarian Relief: The resumption of aid and reconstruction efforts aim to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, providing much-needed relief to the population.

• Reconciliation Efforts: The release of prisoners and hostages is a step toward reconciliation, though deep-seated mistrust remains a challenge.

• Economic Development: The proposed economic development plans aim to rebuild and energize Gaza, offering hope for a better future.

The Israel-Hamas peace agreement represents a significant milestone in the quest for lasting peace in the region. While the deal addresses immediate concerns such as ceasefire and humanitarian aid, several critical issues remain unresolved. The success of this agreement will depend on the commitment of all parties to address these challenges and work toward a sustainable and peaceful future.