US President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that Israel and Hamas had reached a long-awaited agreement for a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release, forming the first phase of his plan to end the two-year war in the Palestinian enclave.
The breakthrough, hailed as a critical step towards halting one of the region’s deadliest conflicts in recent decades, follows months of indirect negotiations and growing international pressure on both sides to agree to a truce.
The announcement drew swift reactions from global leaders, many welcoming the accord while urging Israel and Hamas to fully implement their commitments under the deal.
‘GREAT day’
“I am very proud to announce that Israel and Hamas have both signed off on the first Phase of our Peace Plan,” Trump said on Truth Social.
“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace.
“All Parties will be treated fairly! This is a GREAT Day for the Arab and Muslim World, Israel, all surrounding Nations, and the United States of America, and we thank the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey, who worked with us to make this Historic and Unprecedented Event happen. BLESSED ARE THE PEACEMAKERS!”
In a post on X, he praised President Donald Trump’s “unwavering commitment to world peace” throughout the negotiation process, as well as the “resolute and wise leadership” of Qatar, Egypt, and Turkiye for their tireless mediation efforts.
PM Shehbaz paid tribute to the “unprecedented suffering” of the Palestinian people, saying their ordeal must “never, ever be repeated.”
He also condemned “recent provocations at Masjid Al Aqsa,” urging the international community to hold “occupiers and illegal settlers to account” and prevent actions that could jeopardise the progress made toward peace.
He reaffirmed Pakistan’s resolve to work with “partners, friends and brotherly nations” to ensure peace, security, and dignity for the Palestinian people in line with their aspirations and relevant UN resolutions.
Israel and Hamas agree to first phase of Trump’s Gaza ceasefire plan
