Israel Agrees to Initial Gaza Withdrawal Line in US-Proposed Deal Awaiting Hamas Confirmation

US President Donald Trump announced that Israel has agreed to an initial withdrawal line in Gaza as part of a proposed ceasefire deal with Hamas, which would lead to the immediate start of a hostage and prisoner exchange once Hamas confirms. The withdrawal line corresponds roughly to the Israeli Defense Forces' (IDF) position before their major offensive on Gaza City. Trump emphasized that this step could bring an end to the long-standing conflict he described as a "3,000 YEAR CATASTROPHE." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed hope for the hostages' release soon and has sent a delegation to Egypt to finalize technical details of the negotiations, while signaling there will not be a full Israeli withdrawal from Gaza. The IDF has shifted to defensive operations amid ongoing talks, reflecting a tentative agreement on Trump's peace plan, which includes phased troop withdrawals and renewed negotiations. This development marks a significant moment in efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict and secure the release of hostages.