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

Israel has approved the first phase of a cease-fire plan with Hamas after intensive talks in the region. The cabinet has voted to pause fighting and to allow hostage releases; humanitarian aid will be increased and some Israeli forces will withdraw from parts of Gaza. Negotiators have worked in Egypt and other countries while mediators helped to shape the agreement.

President Donald Trump said hostages should be released on Monday or Tuesday. Reuters reported that the agreement includes provisions for the simultaneous release of 20 living hostages, 72 hours after the ceasefire starts. Although the outline is now approved, many practical details remain unresolved since border crossings, prisoner lists and timing require verification. International groups have been told that aid deliveries will be expanded and medical evacuations may be arranged.

Citizens and aid workers hope the pause will reduce immediate suffering and open the way for longer talks. Observers say monitors will track compliance and the High Court may hear petitions about prisoner releases.