Sharm el-sheikh: Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, US President Donald Trump, and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani signed a landmark agreement formalizing the end of the Gaza war. The signing took place in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. The leaders emphasized their commitment to fostering an environment of tolerance, dignity, and equal opportunity in the region, ensuring peace, security, and economic prosperity for all individuals, regardless of race, religion, or ethnicity. The agreement highlights a vision rooted in mutual respect and collective prosperity, welcoming progress towards comprehensive peace arrangements in the Gaza Strip and improved relations between Israel and its regional neighbors.
According to Anadolu Agency, the first phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement came into effect last Friday under President Trump's plan, aiming to conclude a two-year Israeli conflict on the enclave. As part of the agreement, Israel has begun releasing Palestinian prisoners, while Hamas freed all 20 Israeli captives held in Gaza.
Israel Releases Nearly 2,000 Palestinian Prisoners Under Ceasefire
Israel has freed nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners as part of the initial phase of a Gaza ceasefire agreement. The Hamas-run Prisoners' Media Office reported that buses transporting freed prisoners from Ofer Prison in the West Bank arrived in Beitunia, with confirmation from WAFA, the official news agency, that 96 prisoners with high jail terms were brought in by the International Committee of the Red Cross. Additionally, 154 prisoners were deported to Egypt under the deal, while buses carrying over 1,700 prisoners from Negev Prison reached the Gaza Strip.
Anadolu Agency notes that under the current deal, 250 prisoners serving life sentences or long terms, along with 1,718 prisoners arrested post-October 7, 2023, were released.
Madagascar's President Seeks Safety After Alleged Assassination Attempt
Madagascar's President, Andry Rajoelina, announced that he has taken refuge in a "safe space" following an alleged assassination attempt. Rajoelina emphasized the importance of the country's constitution in resolving the ongoing political crisis, marked by weeks of youth-led protests against water and electricity shortages and alleged corruption. These protests have evolved into calls for his resignation.
According to Anadolu Agency, Rajoelina, believed to be in France, addressed the nation via Facebook, stating his commitment to seeking solutions. The unrest has led to significant government changes, including a Cabinet dissolution and new appointments.