Israel and Hamas Agree to First Phase of Peace Plan in Gaza Conflict

Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan, paving the way for a possible end to the conflict in Gaza.

Under the plan, Hamas will release the twenty living hostages it is still holding, while Israel will withdraw its troops to an agreed line and free nearly two thousand Palestinian detainees.

World leaders, Palestinians, and Israelis have welcomed the news, but details remain sparse, and crucial further steps, such as who will govern Gaza, are still to be discussed.

The long-awaited breakthrough raises hopes for a lasting peace in a conflict that has lasted two years and two days, and cost tens of thousands of lives.