Israel and Hamas have reached a significant agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza, which includes the release of all remaining hostages and around two thousand Palestinian prisoners. The deal, brokered after intense negotiations in Egypt and led by the United States, marks the first phase of a broader peace initiative and is expected to take effect later on Thursday following approval by the Israeli government.

Reactions to the agreement have been mixed, with celebrations and relief in Gaza at the prospect of an end to attacks and the arrival of much-needed aid, while some families of hostages express frustration over the time it has taken to reach this point. There is also uncertainty about the specifics of the plan, and some members of the Israeli government remain opposed. The Global News Podcast provides in-depth coverage and analysis of these developments as they unfold.