In a dramatic announcement that seemed crafted for television, US President Donald Trump declared that peace could soon be on the horizon for the Middle East. The revelation that Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace deal in Gaza marks a significant, even monumental, development. According to Majed Al Ansari, a spokesperson for the Qatari Foreign Ministry, the agreement aims to “end the war, release Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, and allow the entry of aid.”
Despite the jubilant celebrations that erupted in both Gaza and Tel Aviv, with Palestinians and Israelis dancing in the streets, the end of the conflict remains uncertain. As the world watches, questions about the path forward and the durability of this peace loom large.
The Fragile Path Forward
The agreement is just the beginning, and many details remain unclear. One of the most pressing issues is the timeline for the release of hostages. Originally, Trump’s 20-point peace plan called for the release of all remaining Israeli hostages within 72 hours. Currently, 48 hostages are believed to be in Gaza, with 20 confirmed alive. However, it is uncertain if this timeline will hold, as Trump assured families their loved ones would return by Monday, October 13.
For the release to occur, Israeli forces are expected to withdraw from significant portions of Gaza. While President Trump previously shared a map indicating the areas Israel would vacate, the specifics have yet to be disclosed. Hamas has long demanded a total and immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces as a prerequisite for any peace deal, particularly following the release of hostages. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu maintains that a military presence in Gaza is essential for Israel’s security.
Relief and Skepticism in Israel
In Israel, the announcement has brought a wave of relief, especially among the families of hostages. After over 730 days, their ordeal may finally be nearing an end. Einav Zengauker, the mother of one hostage, celebrated by lighting a flare in Hostage Square in Tel Aviv. She has been a vocal critic of Netanyahu’s government, accusing them of endangering her son and others held in Gaza’s tunnels.
However, for Palestinians in Gaza, the future remains uncertain. Hamas insists that the US and international community must hold Israel accountable to the agreement, fearing a repeat of past failures. In 2025, a similar ceasefire collapsed when Israel allegedly failed to engage in further negotiations, leading to renewed hostilities in March.
The Role of International Pressure
The breakthrough has sparked debate about the role of international pressure in achieving this agreement. Trump’s assertive approach, while controversial, may have been pivotal in securing the deal. In an interview with Fox News, Trump recounted a conversation with Netanyahu, saying, “I said ‘Israel cannot fight the world Bibi, they can’t fight the world.'” This statement underscores the global pressure Israel faced to yield on certain issues.
Officials worldwide, including in Australia, view this as a testament to the effectiveness of recent international cooperation, such as recognizing Palestinian statehood, in pressuring Israel. While Trump’s influence cannot be overlooked, the question remains whether these efforts could have succeeded earlier.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The initial phase of the peace plan is just one step in a complex process. Future negotiations will likely address further Israeli withdrawals and the broader resolution of the conflict. The success of this agreement hinges on the willingness of both parties to engage in meaningful dialogue and compromise.
As the world watches, the implications of this agreement extend beyond the immediate region. A lasting peace in Gaza could serve as a model for conflict resolution elsewhere, but only if the involved parties remain committed to the process. The coming days and weeks will be crucial in determining whether this historic agreement can pave the way for a more stable and peaceful future in the Middle East.
