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First Phase of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire Officially Begins

October 15, 2025

A significant ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas took effect on October 10, following two years of devastating conflict in Palestinian territories. The multi-phase deal, facilitated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, was formalized at the Sharm el-Sheikh Peace Summit where over 20 world leaders gathered. The first phase included an exchange of 20 Israeli hostages for 250 Palestinian prisoners and 1,700 Gaza detainees, along with partial Israeli withdrawal and approval for humanitarian aid, though Israel has already violated terms by killing Palestinians and restricting aid.

Who is affected

  • Palestinians in Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem
  • Israeli hostages and their families
  • Palestinian prisoners and Gaza detainees
  • Nearly the entire population of Gaza who were displaced
  • The 67,173 Palestinians killed and 169,780 injured between October 2023 and October 2025
  • Humanitarian aid workers and organizations like UNRWA
  • Palestinian journalists like Plestia Alaqad and Yara Eid who documented the conflict

What action is being taken

  • The first phase of a multi-step ceasefire is being implemented
  • Israeli forces are beginning to withdraw from Gaza, though they still occupy approximately half the territory
  • 190,000 tonnes of humanitarian assistance is being approved to enter Gaza
  • The second phase of establishing a new governing body in Gaza and disarming Hamas is underway
  • The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) is supporting relief efforts

Why it matters

  • It provides the first respite after more than two years of continuous bloodshed and humanitarian crisis
  • The deal could potentially lead to peace and eventual liberation of Palestinian territories
  • The ceasefire addresses the displacement of nearly the entire Gaza population
  • It may help reverse the severe humanitarian crises Palestinians have endured
  • The agreement represents a significant diplomatic achievement involving multiple international powers

What's next

  • The second phase of the ceasefire includes establishing a new governing body in Gaza
  • Hamas is to be disarmed as part of the next phase of the agreement
  • World leaders will continue discussions on fostering peace in the region
  • Implementation of the remaining phases of the multi-step ceasefire deal
  • Continued monitoring of Israel's adherence to the terms of the agreement

Read full article from source: The Washington Informer