Cease‑fire and Hostage Exchange: What Happened and What It Means

Israel’s government approved the first phase of a cease-fire deal with Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the country’s leader, led the cabinet meeting. The deal will pause fighting and allow some hostages to leave Gaza. Many people will get more aid and some Palestinian prisoners will be freed.

President Donald Trump said hostages should be released on Monday or Tuesday. The leaders hope this pause will bring more food and medicine into Gaza and make it safer for aid workers. The cabinet approval is an important step, but details and the exact schedule are not yet public. Negotiators met in Egypt and other countries helped with talks.