Democrats have reacted positively to the first phase of a Israel–Hamas cease-fire and hostage deal announced Oct. 9 by President Donald Trump, while emphasizing immediate relief for civilians, the return of all hostages, and a clear path to durable peace.
Details provided by the White House and mediators indicate the first phase will pause fighting, freeze battle lines, and facilitate a hostage–prisoner exchange alongside an Israeli pullback to an agreed line.
The Israeli Cabinet has approved the outline of the deal, according to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office late on Oct. 9.
According to the plan, a cease-fire will take effect, and within 72 hours of Israel’s public acceptance, all hostages—alive and deceased—will be returned, with aid entering Gaza under international oversight. Details of later phases—including Hamas disarmament and Gaza’s postwar governance—remain to be defined….
Democrats Applaud 1st Phase of Gaza Peace Deal, Urge Swift Implementation
