A hostage-for-withdrawal pact forms the core of a nearly-finalized agreement to end the two-year war in Gaza, a deal that US officials now say is “90 per cent” complete. The arrangement would see all Israeli hostages freed in exchange for a significant Israeli military repositioning.
According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who announced the progress, Hamas has “basically” agreed to the framework. The key trade involves Israel pulling its forces back to the “yellow line,” its mid-August position, upon the safe return of the hostages.
Beyond this central pact, the deal also looks toward a more stable future. Rubio reported that Hamas has consented “in principle” to a plan for the post-war administration of Gaza, signaling a willingness to engage in a broader political process.
The initiative has the powerful backing of President Donald Trump, who has called it a “great deal for Israel” and threatened Hamas with “complete obliteration” if it rejects the terms. Trump also confirmed he has the support of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
With the foundational exchange agreed upon, the final details are now being ironed out in technical talks. The success of this pact could bring an end to the long and destructive conflict.
