Phase 1 Ceasefire Agreement Takes Effect

A phased ceasefire agreement brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States takes effect after being approved by the Israeli cabinet. Phase 1 provides for a 42-day ceasefire during which Hamas releases 33 hostages (women, elderly, and those with medical conditions) in exchange for Israel releasing approximately 1,890 Palestinian prisoners. Israeli forces partially withdraw from populated areas and aid flows increase dramatically. The deal marks the first significant pause in fighting since December 2023.