Cairo (Web Desk):
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has officially announced that the Gaza ceasefire agreement has come into effect, marking what many global leaders are calling a historic moment for peace in the Middle East. Speaking from Cairo, President Sisi said that after two years of suffering, an agreement has been reached to end the war in Gaza. He noted that the Israeli government is expected to confirm the agreement by this evening.
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs declared the development a “significant turning point,” with the progress made in Sharm El-Sheikh representing a key moment in efforts to halt the Gaza conflict. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty is expected to travel to Paris to participate in a high-level ministerial meeting to further support the peace initiative.
President Sisi emphasized that the ceasefire agreement includes the cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of Israeli forces, the resumption of humanitarian aid, and a structured prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas. According to Israeli officials, the release of 20 Israeli hostages from Gaza is expected by Sunday or Monday.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed on social media that Israel and Hamas have signed the first phase of the peace plan, which includes an Israeli troop withdrawal to a mutually agreed-upon line and the prompt release of all hostages. “This is the first step toward strong, sustainable, and lasting peace,” Trump said, thanking Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey for their crucial roles in brokering the agreement.
President Trump further stated that it was a “great day” for the Muslim world, Israel, neighboring countries, and the United States, expressing hope that all parties would now be treated fairly.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has scheduled a meeting of the Security Cabinet this evening to approve the agreement formally. He reiterated Israel’s commitment to securing the safe return of hostages and acknowledged the delicate nature of the accord.
Hamas welcomed the ceasefire and called on international guarantors — particularly the U.S., Egypt, Turkey, and Qatar — to ensure that Israel complies fully and promptly with all terms of the agreement. The group stressed that while Palestinians desire peace, they will not surrender their right to self-determination or dignity. Hamas warned that any Israeli violation of the agreement would be met with a response to protect Palestinian lives.
On the international front, French President Emmanuel Macron offered France’s full support in enforcing the agreement, urging strict compliance from both sides. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed relief that hostages may soon be reunited with their families, describing the moment as a hopeful turn after years of hardship.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised the diplomatic efforts leading to the agreement and expressed optimism following cooperation from both the Israeli government and the Palestinian Authority. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas called the ceasefire a “genuine opportunity” to end the devastating conflict and secure the release of all hostages.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan also welcomed the agreement but reaffirmed Turkey’s continued support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Saudi Arabia echoed similar sentiments, expressing hope that the deal would lead to full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, restoration of regional stability, and the launch of practical steps toward a two-state solution and comprehensive peace.
