The ceasefire deal President Donald Trump is traveling to celebrate is a complex, multi-phased agreement designed to de-escalate the Israel-Hamas conflict methodically. Understanding the initial steps is key to grasping the delicate nature of the current truce and the challenges that lie ahead.
The first phase, which is currently underway, began with a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from major cities in Gaza. This action triggered a 72-hour countdown for Hamas to implement its primary obligation: the release of the 48 remaining hostages, of whom about 20 are believed to be alive. This exchange is the emotional and political centerpiece of the deal’s beginning.
In parallel, Israel is obligated to release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from its jails, though the exact numbers and names have been subject to intense negotiation. This prisoner exchange is a critical component for Hamas, allowing the group to claim a victory for its constituents.
This phase also includes a major humanitarian component. Israel has agreed to reopen five border crossings to allow a surge of aid into Gaza, which is facing a severe crisis. To facilitate this, a US-led coordination center, supported by 200 American troops, is being established to manage the logistics and security of aid distribution.
Only after this initial phase is successfully completed can negotiators move on to the more difficult, and as yet unresolved, issues. These include establishing a framework for Gaza’s post-war governance, securing funding for reconstruction, and addressing Israel’s demand for the complete disarmament of Hamas. The current calm depends entirely on the flawless execution of these first, crucial steps.
Navigating the Truce: A Step-by-Step Look at the Deal
