Ceasefire in Gaza Comes Into Effect, Claims Egyptian Media

CAIRO/GAZA: Egyptian media has reported that the **Gaza ceasefire agreement has officially come into effect**, marking a potentially historic turning point in the months-long conflict.

According to **Egypt’s Al-Qahira TV**, the ceasefire took effect at **2 a.m. Pakistan Standard Time**. Egypt’s Foreign Ministry hailed the agreement as a *“significant milestone”*, stating that the **positive developments in Sharm El-Sheikh** represent *“a crucial moment in the Gaza conflict.”* Egyptian Foreign Minister **Badr Abdelatty** is scheduled to travel to **Paris** today to attend a ministerial meeting on the situation in Gaza.

However, a statement from the **Israeli Prime Minister’s Office** noted that the ceasefire would formally come into force **later in the evening**, pending official approval by the Israeli government.

According to international news agencies, **Israeli officials expect the release of around 20 Israeli hostages** from Gaza **on Sunday or Monday** as part of the truce agreement.

### Hamas and Israel Expected to Sign Agreement Today

Reports suggest that **Hamas and Israel are expected to officially sign the Gaza peace agreement today**, with the signing likely to take place **by midday**. Once signed, the ceasefire will take full effect, and **the first phase of Israel’s partial military withdrawal from Gaza** is expected to be completed within **24 hours**.

Israeli Prime Minister **Benjamin Netanyahu** has reportedly convened **two cabinet meetings today** to finalize formal approval of the deal. The **Israeli military** has already begun **operational preparations** to implement the agreement.

Meanwhile, **families of Israeli hostages in Tel Aviv** have welcomed the ceasefire as a *“positive and hopeful development.”* In Gaza City and Khan Younis, **residents took to the streets**, exchanging greetings and celebrating news of the truce.

Yesterday, **U.S. President Donald Trump** claimed on social media that *“Israel and Hamas have signed the Gaza peace agreement,”* expressing hope that **hostage releases would begin by Monday**.

Global leaders, including the **UN Secretary-General** and the **Prime Minister of Pakistan**, have **welcomed the Gaza peace deal**, describing it as *“a promising step toward lasting peace in the Middle East.”*