The Israeli government has approved the first phase of a US brokered deal with Hamas for a ceasefire and hostage exchange after two years of conflict. It includes a ceasefire, the release of 48 Israeli hostages in exchange for about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces, and an influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza. The announcement was met with scenes of celebration in both Israel and Gaza. The deal marks a diplomatic breakthrough but covers only part of Trump’s 20-point peace plan, leaving key issues such as Hamas disarmament and Gaza’s future governance unresolved.