Surrounded by banners about hostages held by Hamas, a couple enjoys sunset over the Mediterranean Sea in Tel Aviv, Israel, Oct. 12, 2025. Along with the exchange of hostages and prisoners, and an end to the fighting that has devastated the Gaza Strip for over two years, the cease-fire deal also calls for a major influx of aid. (Amit Elkayam/The New York Times)
UPDATE: Israel and Hamas are poised to initiate an urgent exchange of hostages early Monday morning (local time), marking a significant breakthrough in the ongoing conflict. This critical deal, first announced by President Donald Trump and confirmed by both parties, aims to facilitate the release of approximately 20 hostages held in the Gaza Strip in exchange for 250 Palestinian prisoners detained in Israel.
The agreement, finalized last week through extensive negotiations mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and the United States, comes as a ceasefire takes effect. Reports indicate that Israeli forces began pulling back to a new defensive line inside Gaza, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to Gaza City. This momentous development follows a prolonged humanitarian crisis affecting thousands in the region.
As part of the deal, a significant influx of humanitarian aid is set to commence, with the United Nations reporting that around 600 humanitarian aid trucks will begin entering Gaza daily starting Sunday. This marks a doubling of aid compared to recent weeks, addressing critical shortages of food, medical supplies, and shelter for those affected by the conflict.
The hostages are expected to be released to representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross, who will transport them to the Israeli military for initial medical evaluations and reunions with family members. The Israeli military has confirmed that these individuals will then be flown to hospitals in the Tel Aviv area equipped for their care.
The background of this agreement stems from the devastating events of October 7, 2023, when Hamas conducted an attack that resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people in Israel, primarily civilians. The ongoing Israeli military response has resulted in over 67,000 Palestinian casualties, aggravating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and leading to international condemnation.
While the deal represents a significant step toward peace, many details remain unclear, especially concerning Hamas’s potential disarmament. Israeli officials emphasize that any agreement must ensure that Hamas relinquishes its arms, a condition that the militant group has publicly rejected. However, some mediators express cautious optimism, suggesting that Hamas may be open to negotiations regarding its future conduct.
As the world watches for developments, both Palestinians and Israelis are expressing hope for a resolution, with many celebrating the news of the deal. Authorities believe that the hostages will be released early on Monday, but the complexities surrounding the transfer of remains of deceased hostages could prolong the process.
The international community remains alert to the implications of this deal, as it could pave the way for further negotiations and potentially ease the long-standing tensions in the region.
This situation continues to evolve rapidly, and updates will follow as more information becomes available. The impact of this agreement on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian relations remains to be seen, but the urgency of the moment cannot be overstated. Share this developing story to keep others informed.
