Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement for the first phase of a Gaza peace deal, involving the return of some hostages and prisoner exchanges, according to a source with direct knowledge of the negotiations. Parts of the deal could be announced by tonight or tomorrow morning, with the actual exchange of hostages expected within 48 hours, likely over the weekend. This development occurred between 9:08 PM and 10:08 PM UTC on October 8th, 2025. A senior White House official informed CNN that President Trump is expected to post on Truth Social soon, indicating a deal is imminent. NewsNation reported that the agreement entails the return of some hostages and prisoner exchanges, with an announcement possible tonight or tomorrow morning, and the exchange of hostages within 48 hours, possibly over the weekend. President Trump has previously stated he could visit the region if the timing permits, with White House spokeswoman Caroline Levitt confirming he will undergo annual medical examinations on Friday and is considering a trip to the Middle East shortly afterward. Negotiations are ongoing regarding other elements of the peace plan, according to NewsNation. A note observed being passed to President Trump in the White House suggested the need for him to approve a Truth Social post to announce the deal first. French news agency reports indicated the Trump administration was prepared to declare the Gaza agreement. An Israeli senior source stated that a deal may have been close to being finalized tonight.
