Hamas and Israel Reach Hostage Release and Ceasefire Agreement

Islamabad:A ceasefire agreement has been reached between Hamas and Israel, along with a deal for the release of hostages. This historic development has been met with widespread approval from global leaders. The first to claim credit for the breakthrough was U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, who declared that an agreement had been made to release Israeli hostages in Gaza.

Donald Trump took to the stage, stating that the ceasefire agreement was the result of a diplomatic effort he spearheaded. He claimed that the deal was a direct outcome of the “historic victory” of his November 2024 presidential election. Trump added that the agreement signaled to the world that his administration would prioritize the safety of all Americans and their allies while seeking peace and negotiating deals. He emphasized the accomplishments his administration had achieved even without occupying the White House and expressed optimism for even greater achievements upon his return.

In response to Trump’s statements, President Joe Biden, along with Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, held a press conference welcoming the Gaza ceasefire agreement. Biden described the agreement as the product of U.S. diplomacy under his administration. He explained that the draft for the ceasefire had been prepared during his presidency, but the incoming Trump administration would handle the implementation of the agreement. Biden further added that he had instructed his team to maintain close contact with the incoming Trump team to ensure that all sides presented a unified stance on the matter.

As Biden was leaving the stage, a reporter asked who should receive credit for the agreement – Donald Trump or Joe Biden. In a light-hearted response, Biden asked, “Was that a joke?”

Despite the announcement of the ceasefire agreement, reports indicate that Israeli forces have continued their attacks in the Gaza Strip, with at least 30 Palestinians reported killed since the deal’s announcement. The conflict, which began on October 7 of the previous year, escalated when Hamas launched an attack on southern Israel, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people, according to Israeli authorities. In addition, Hamas took about 250 individuals hostage and transported them to Gaza. In retaliation, Israel began a series of airstrikes on Gaza, causing significant destruction.