Ceasefire Holds as Hostages and Prisoners Exchanged
The fragile Gaza ceasefire continued into its third day after Hamas handed over all living Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
This exchange marks the completion of the first phase of Donald Trump’s peace plan for Gaza, which aims to end years of conflict between Israel and Hamas.
According to the Israeli military, 20 living hostages were safely handed to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). In return, Israel released 250 long-term Palestinian prisoners and 1,718 detainees, including minors.
However, tension remains high over the return of deceased hostages, as Hamas confirmed only four bodies were transferred back to Israel — fewer than what was agreed in the ceasefire document.
Who Are the Released Hostages and Prisoners?
The released hostages included both Israeli citizens and foreign nationals, taken captive during the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that reignited the Gaza war.
Meanwhile, the freed Palestinian prisoners include those serving long sentences, though prominent figures such as Marwan Barghouti and Ahmad Saadat were excluded from the list.
Palestinians across Gaza and the West Bank celebrated the release, waving flags and chanting for freedom, while Israeli families gathered in Tel Aviv to welcome their loved ones home.
Phase Two: What Comes Next?
With the first stage complete, negotiations for phase two of the plan are expected to begin soon.
According to U.S. officials, a multinational force of 200 troops — led by the U.S. and including Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the UAE — will monitor the ceasefire. No American ground troops will enter Gaza.
Trump’s 20-point peace roadmap outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal, starting with troops controlling 53% of Gaza. The area will later be governed by a transitional Palestinian committee, supervised by a “Board of Peace” chaired by Trump and former U.K. Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Ultimately, governance would be handed to a reformed Palestinian Authority, excluding Hamas from any future leadership role.
Challenges Ahead for Lasting Peace
Despite progress, major challenges remain.
Hamas has not agreed to fully disarm, and Israel is reluctant to allow the Palestinian Authority to govern Gaza.
The ambiguity around Israel’s final troop withdrawal — expected to leave 15% of Gaza under security control — could also become a flashpoint in upcoming talks.
Still, humanitarian groups and citizens on both sides express cautious hope that this ceasefire may finally mark a turning point toward peace after two years of devastation.
