A ceasefire agreement between Hamas and the Israeli occupation regime has officially been signed in Egypt, marking a significant step toward halting nearly two years of relentless hostilities in the Gaza Strip.

The agreement, brokered through the tireless mediation efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and Türkiye, was confirmed by Egyptian media early Thursday, which reported that the ceasefire has now come into effect.

U.S. President Donald Trump also announced the approval of the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire plan, thanking the mediating countries for their pivotal role in facilitating the accord.

“We thank the mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and Türkiye for their crucial efforts in facilitating this agreement,” Trump said, expressing optimism that the ceasefire would open a path toward long-term stability.

Following the ceasefire declaration, delegations from Hamas and the Israeli occupation regime met in Egypt to sign the final agreement, which includes provisions for a complete cessation of military aggression, the facilitation of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and preparations for prisoner exchange arrangements under international supervision.

According to regional reports, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to convene both the security cabinet and the full government to formally ratify the deal, ensuring all military and political aspects are aligned before the agreement’s full implementation.

For the Palestinian side, the ceasefire represents not only an end to active bombardment but also a hard-earned diplomatic victory following months of steadfast resistance and devastating human loss.

Analysts highlight that the agreement’s framework—particularly the focus on humanitarian aid delivery, the potential release of Palestinian prisoners, and regional guarantees—could pave the way for broader negotiations addressing Gaza’s reconstruction and long-term political status.

The ceasefire signing ceremony in Cairo underscores Egypt’s continued central role as a mediator in regional crises, supported closely by Qatar’s diplomatic engagement and Türkiye’s vocal advocacy for an end to the Israeli blockade and occupation policies.

Observers in the Arab world have hailed the development as a “historic step toward justice and relief for Gaza,” while cautioning that the success of the agreement will depend on Israel’s adherence to its terms and the international community’s commitment to ensuring accountability.

The ceasefire comes after 734 days of Israeli aggression that left tens of thousands of Palestinians dead or wounded, most of them civilians, and rendered much of Gaza’s infrastructure uninhabitable.

If the agreement holds, it could signal the beginning of a new phase of political dialogue aimed at rebuilding Gaza and reviving discussions for a just and lasting peace based on Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination. (ILKHA)