Israel and Hamas took a cautious first step toward peace on Monday, freeing hostages and prisoners as part of a US-brokered ceasefire deal that’s offering a rare moment of hope after two years of devastating war in Gaza.
The exchange marked the first tangible progress under the agreement, which Washington hopes could pave the way for a permanent truce. But core disputes -- including Hamas’ disarmament, Gaza’s future governance, and the broader question of Palestinian statehood -- remain unresolved. For now, the truce is just that: a pause in the deadliest conflict between Israelis and Palestinians in history.
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For many Israelis, the release of the 20 remaining living hostages brought a wave of elation -- and relief.
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