President Donald Trump confirmed on Saturday that Israel has agreed to the ‘initial withdrawal line’ in Gaza, a proposal shared with Hamas by the U.S. This agreement, contingent on Hamas’ acceptance, could trigger an immediate ceasefire and the exchange of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Trump described the development as a critical step toward ending the ‘3,000-year catastrophe’ he has repeatedly referenced, framing it as a turning point in the conflict. He emphasized the importance of the agreement in creating conditions for the next phase of withdrawal, which he believes will bring the situation closer to resolution.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed optimism, stating that Israel is on the verge of a major breakthrough. In a statement released Saturday morning, Netanyahu highlighted that Israel was working diligently to finalize the details, with the hope of announcing the return of all hostages, both living and deceased, during the upcoming Sukkot holiday. He noted that the deal was the result of intense military and diplomatic pressure, and that Israel and the U.S. are committed to ensuring that Hamas does not delay or stall the process. Netanyahu also reiterated his belief that either the agreement will be achieved through diplomatic means or, if necessary, through military force.
Trump’s announcement comes as part of a broader effort to broker a lasting peace in the region, with the proposed withdrawal line forming the first stage of the plan. The second phase would involve disarming Hamas and demilitarizing Gaza, either through diplomatic channels or military action. Netanyahu pledged that Israel and its allies would achieve the goal, regardless of the method. He also acknowledged Trump’s support in key strategic operations, including the dispatch of B2 planes to bomb the nuclear facility in Fordo, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration in the broader Middle East conflict.