Trump Announces Hostages to Be Released Soon in 'Epic' Deal

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire and hostage release deal, marking a significant step toward de-escalation after 15 months of conflict. The agreement, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S., is set to take effect on Sunday, January 19, and includes the phased release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

The deal features a six-week truce during which Israel will gradually withdraw its forces from Gaza. Hamas has committed to releasing 33 hostages during the first phase, beginning with women, children, and men over 50. The remaining hostages will be addressed in a second phase of talks.

According to mediators, the first stage will see three hostages released on the first day, with additional releases scheduled weekly. Israel will reciprocate by freeing over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 individuals described as “terrorists with blood on their hands.”

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump took credit for the agreement, calling it an “epic ceasefire deal” and crediting his November election victory for enabling progress. “This could have only happened as a result of our historic victory,” Trump said, pledging continued support for Israel and the expansion of the Abraham Accords.

Members of Congress also praised Trump’s involvement. “President Trump hasn’t even been sworn in yet and he’s already scoring massive wins,” stated Rep. Eli Crane (R-Ariz.).

The IDF has launched “Operation Wings of Freedom” to prepare for the hostages’ return. Meanwhile, Israeli ministers are set to meet Thursday to approve the agreement, with coalition whip Miki Zohar urging support for the deal, calling it a moral obligation.

The International Committee of the Red Cross is coordinating logistics for the transfer of hostages, building on its role in the November 2023 truce when Hamas released 105 captives.

While the agreement marks progress, significant challenges remain. Talks on the second phase of the truce will determine the release of remaining hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the long-term governance of Gaza. Israel opposes Hamas retaining power in Gaza but has also expressed reluctance to involve the Palestinian Authority.

Hamas is currently holding 98 hostages, 94 of whom were taken during the October 7, 2023, attack that claimed 1,200 Israeli lives. Thirty-six hostages, including two IDF soldiers from 2014, are confirmed deceased.

The deal represents a critical moment in the ongoing conflict, offering hope for resolution while leaving complex questions about Gaza’s future unanswered.

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