CaliToday (14/10/2025): Cairo, Egypt – A significant breakthrough in marathon ceasefire negotiations has ignited hopes for an extended period of peace in the war-torn Gaza Strip. International mediators in Egypt announced late Tuesday that both Israeli and Hamas delegations have responded positively to a comprehensive framework agreement, paving the way for a potential cessation of hostilities and a large-scale exchange of hostages and prisoners.
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| US President Donald Trump (right) and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi hold the signed document on the ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Hamas movement, in the city of Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt, October 13, 2025. Photo: AFP |
The proposed deal, brokered by Egypt and Qatar with significant involvement from the United States, marks the most substantial progress in talks after months of intense, often indirect, negotiations. While details remain under discussion, the framework reportedly outlines a phased approach to de-escalate the conflict, which has devastated the region.
At the heart of the proposal is a multi-stage prisoner and hostage exchange. In the initial phase, Hamas would release a number of Israeli hostages, prioritizing women, children, the elderly, and the sick. In return, Israel would free a significant number of Palestinian prisoners from its jails, including some serving lengthy sentences. Subsequent phases would see the release of all remaining hostages, including soldiers, in exchange for further prisoner releases and a more permanent ceasefire.
A key component of the framework is a commitment to a sustained halt in fighting. The initial phase is expected to begin with a truce lasting several weeks, allowing for the safe exchange of captives and the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza. The ultimate goal, according to negotiators, is to build on this initial calm to secure a lasting and durable peace.
Sources close to the talks in Cairo have expressed cautious optimism. "There is a tangible sense of progress that we have not seen in previous rounds of negotiations," one diplomat was quoted as saying. "Both sides have shown a willingness to engage with the core elements of the framework, which is a crucial first step."
The international community has reacted swiftly to the news, with world leaders urging both parties to seize this opportunity for peace. The White House issued a statement welcoming the "positive steps" and reaffirming its commitment to a two-state solution. Regional powers have also lauded the efforts of the Egyptian and Qatari mediators in bridging the gap between the two sides.
Despite the positive momentum, significant hurdles remain. The exact number of prisoners to be released, the criteria for their selection, and the timeline for a complete Israeli withdrawal from parts of Gaza are all complex issues that will require further negotiation. Hardliners on both sides may also seek to derail the process.
Nevertheless, for the millions affected by the conflict, the news from Egypt offers a glimmer of hope. The prospect of a prolonged ceasefire and the return of captives has been met with a mixture of relief and anticipation, as the region waits to see if this framework can finally bring an end to the cycle of violence.
