Live Update: Security Cabinet Meets on Gaza Peace Plan
Israel’s security cabinet convened to discuss and vote on the first phase of the Gaza peace plan announced by the U.S. and the parties involved. The government spokeswoman confirmed that following a 24-hour window, a 72-hour period would begin for releasing all hostages as part of the phased agreement. As Israel weighs the terms, regional and international actors monitor the potential impact on security, humanitarian aid, and political stability.
Prime Minister Netanyahu and Trump: A Personal Exchange
Following the peace plan’s announcement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump in what officials described as an “emotional and warm” phone call. Netanyahu thanked Trump for his leadership and partnership, emphasizing that the agreement represents a significant step toward the safety of Israeli citizens and the return of hostages. The call underscored a rare moment of bipartisan U.S.-Israel alignment around a staged peace process.
What the First Phase Entails
The first phase centers on hostage release and military redeployment. Reports cited by the Associated Press indicate Hamas would release 20 living Israeli hostages in the coming days, with Israel beginning to withdraw its forces from most of Gaza. The blueprint aligns with Trump’s broader peace plan, which calls for a ceasefire, prisoner exchanges, and a supervisory international framework. Experts say the stage sets the tone for subsequent steps, including governance arrangements for Gaza and the involvement of international mediators.
Key Provisions and Controversies
The plan’s framing includes a sequence where Hamas reportedly transfers control to technocratic, apolitical authorities under international oversight. In return, Israel would release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including individuals serving life sentences for attacks on Israelis. Netanyahu framed the agreement as a “diplomatic and moral victory,” insisting that all hostages would be brought home with the backing of a strong alliance with the United States.
Reactions from Israel and Hamas
Israel’s military leadership signaled readiness, with top command directing forces to prepare for any scenario while welcoming the agreement. Netanyahu credited the country’s military actions and U.S. leadership for enabling this milestone. Hamas issued a statement describing the agreement as a pathway to ending the war in Gaza, stressing the need for the occupation’s withdrawal, humanitarian aid access, and the exchange of prisoners. It urged Trump to ensure Israel implements the accord without delay and without evasion.
What Happens Next?
Officials say the 72-hour release window will begin once the 24-hour period concludes, with ongoing negotiations and verification processes to ensure both sides adhere to the milestones. The international community, including mediators led by the U.S. and allied nations, will be watching closely for compliance and potential flashpoints that could threaten the fragile ceasefire and security arrangements.
Why This Matters for the Region
Should the first phase proceed as planned, the move could redefine the dynamics between Israel and Hamas and impact humanitarian corridors, international aid, and the broader peace process. Analysts caution that the path to lasting peace remains complex, requiring steady leadership, reliable enforcement mechanisms, and continued diplomatic engagement from key powers.
Summary
As Israel’s security cabinet debates the plan, the world watches a pivotal moment in the Gaza peace process. The initial phase hinges on hostage release, mutual disengagement, and international oversight, setting the stage for potential shifts in governance, security, and regional diplomacy.
