Israel and Hamas agree ceasefire and hostage dealA ceasefire deal to end the war in Gaza and return Israeli hostages to their families has been agreed by Hamas and the Israeli government, bringing cautious relief to millions in the Middle East and beyond. The first phase of the deal requires the cessation of fighting in Gaza, the return of Israeli hostages, the retreat of Israeli troops to agreed lines, the release of Palestinian prisoners, and – crucially – the entry of aid into Gaza. It forms part of a peace plan brokered by US president Donald Trump, details of which are yet to be publicised. “The need for a ceasefire could not be more urgent,” said the charity’s executive director Catherine Russell. “Unicef welcomes all efforts to end the war and chart a path towards peace in Gaza and the region.”Image: Gehad Alshrafi