In a significant step toward de-escalation, Israel and Hamas carried out a large-scale exchange of hostages and prisoners as part of a fragile ceasefire agreement. Hamas released 20 Israeli hostages and returned the remains of four others, while Israel freed nearly 1,900 Palestinian detainees, signaling a cautious move toward peace after months of intense conflict.
The exchange brought emotional scenes across both Israel and Gaza — relief and reunions on one side, and celebrations on the other. However, deep divisions and unresolved issues remain. The ceasefire leaves unanswered questions about who will govern Gaza, how its devastated infrastructure will be rebuilt, and whether Hamas will agree to disarm.
U.S. President Donald Trump, who helped mediate the truce, emphasized that the deal is a starting point for broader stability in the region. But experts warn that sustaining peace will depend on mutual compliance and international cooperation.
While the release has brought temporary calm, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza continues, with limited aid and widespread destruction. Both sides now face the immense challenge of rebuilding trust — and a war-torn region — as the world watches closely.
