Leaders from across the globe have extended their congratulations to President Donald Trump following the announcement of a groundbreaking peace agreement in Gaza. The deal, achieved between Israel and Hamas after weeks of intense negotiations, was mediated by the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.
India's Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, expressed his support on social media, stating, "I spoke with my friend, President Trump, and congratulated him on the success of the historic Gaza peace plan. We also reviewed progress in trade negotiations."
From the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Keir Starmer applauded "the announcement of the first phase of Trump's Gaza peace plan," while European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the agreement as a chance for lasting peace. She emphasized, "All hostages must be safely released. A permanent ceasefire must be established. The suffering must end."
French President Emmanuel Macron also joined in the messages of support, stating, "Great hope for the hostages and their families, for the Palestinians in Gaza, and for the entire region. I appreciate President Trump's efforts and those of the mediators who made this possible."
Additionally, Argentina's Javier Milei congratulated Trump, suggesting that if peace is confirmed, he would deserve the Nobel Peace Prize.
The agreement, officially announced by Trump on Wednesday, involves the exchange of 48 Israeli hostages (most of whom are deceased) for 2,000 Palestinian prisoners. It also includes a technical withdrawal of the Israeli army to allow humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. The first phase of the plan will be executed from Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, where delegations have been meeting.
The ceasefire is set to take effect 24 hours after the Israeli government ratifies the agreement. "ALL hostages will be released very soon," Trump posted on his social media platform, Truth Social. Secretary of State Marco Rubio played a crucial role in the negotiations, discreetly handing Trump a note during an event in Washington, informing him that the deal was "very close."
Hours later, Trump publicly confirmed the news and hinted at a possible visit to the region in the coming days. Spontaneous celebrations were seen in the streets of Gaza and various Israeli cities following the announcement. However, the forum representing the hostage families in Israel urged caution, demanding immediate government approval of the agreement, warning that any delay could be fatal for those still alive.
Meanwhile, Hamas confirmed the deal but expressed skepticism about its implementation by the Israeli government, seeking assurances from Trump and mediating countries to prevent bombings from resuming after the hostages are released.
The next steps will be more complex: the formation of a Palestinian technocratic government, the beginning of Gaza's reconstruction, and the gradual disarmament of Hamas, as outlined by Marco Rubio. Israeli military withdrawal maps have yet to be published, with details expected to be revealed soon.
Key Questions about the Gaza Peace Agreement
What are the main components of the Gaza peace agreement?
The agreement includes the exchange of 48 Israeli hostages for 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, a technical withdrawal of the Israeli army, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Who played a key role in mediating the peace deal?
The United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey were instrumental in mediating the peace agreement between Israel and Hamas.
What are the next steps following the peace agreement?
The next steps involve forming a Palestinian technocratic government, beginning Gaza's reconstruction, and Hamas's gradual disarmament.