Washington: U.S. President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump on Wednesday praised a newly brokered agreement between Israel and the Hamas militant group, which includes a ceasefire in Gaza and an exchange of hostages for Palestinian prisoners. The deal, facilitated by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict that erupted following Hamas's attack on Israelis on October 7, 2023.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the agreement is structured in three phases, starting with a six-week ceasefire, during which Israeli forces will withdraw from populated areas of Gaza. This initial stage will also see the release of some hostages, including women, the elderly, and the wounded. The second phase seeks to permanently end the conflict and involves the release of remaining hostages, including male soldiers, contingent on the withdrawal of all Israeli troops from Gaza. The third phase entails the return of deceased hostages' remains and the initiation of a reconstruction plan for Gaza.

President Biden expressed his satisfaction with the deal, emphasizing that it is a culmination of efforts he initiated in May. He noted the difficulty of the negotiations, which he described as among the toughest in his long career in foreign policy. He also acknowledged that while the deal was negotiated during his administration, its implementation would largely fall to the incoming Trump administration, highlighting a unified approach in recent discussions.

President-elect Trump also emphasized his contribution to the agreement, attributing the success to his electoral victory and commitment to peace and security for Americans and allies. He expressed his joy at the prospect of American and Israeli hostages being reunited with their families.