A US-brokered ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas is set to enter its first stage, with the release of 48 Israeli hostages, 20 of whom are believed to be alive. The handover is expected to begin at 8:00 local time, according to Israeli media. In return, Israel will release approximately 250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and over 1,700 detained since the start of the Gaza war in 2023, including all women and minors. Humanitarian aid will also be allowed into the enclave to alleviate severe food shortages.

The Israel-Hamas ceasefire took effect on Friday at noon local time, with the Israeli army pulling back to an agreed-upon line, leaving it in control of about 53% of Gaza. Hamas has until Monday to release all Israeli hostages. The 20-point ceasefire plan, unveiled by US President Donald Trump in late September, calls for a phased full Israeli pullout from Gaza, disarming of Hamas, and the creation of a transitional international administration. The plan aims to establish Gaza as a “deradicalized terror-free zone” with Hamas barred from governance.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas militants attacked Israel, killing around 1,200 people and seizing approximately 250 hostages. Israel’s response has resulted in the deaths of over 67,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry, and triggered a humanitarian crisis in the enclave. The UN has accused Israel of genocide.

Global leaders have welcomed Trump’s plan, calling for rapid implementation and urging both sides to comply with the humanitarian provisions. The release of hostages and prisoners is a significant step towards easing tensions in the region. The next stages of the ceasefire plan will be closely watched, as the international community hopes for a lasting resolution to the conflict. The situation in Gaza remains dire, with severe food shortages and a growing humanitarian crisis, making the implementation of the ceasefire plan crucial for the region’s stability.