Category: News

The deal on the “first phase” of a U.S.-backed peace plan, coming after intense negotiations in Egypt’s Sharm el-Sheikh mediated by Egypt, Qatar, Türkiye and the United States, outlines a phased Israeli withdrawal, while establishing mechanisms for prisoner exchanges and humanitarian aid delivery.

While both Gazans and Israelis are experiencing moments of emotional release, political divisions within Israel’s coalition government and Hamas’s demand for international guarantees have somehow threatened to undermine the implementation process.

Besides, the enormous task of rebuilding Gaza and determining its political future looms large, testing whether the deal can evolve from temporary ceasefire to lasting peace.

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Both Israeli and Hamas’s officials have indicated that the ceasefire deal is set for Israeli government ratification. The Israeli side said the ceasefire will take effect within 24 hours after its security cabinet votes Thursday afternoon on the agreement in a meeting, whereas Hamas said the ceasefire will take effect immediately upon Israeli government approval.

According to Israel’s state-owned Kan TV, political resistance within Netanyahu’s coalition, including from far-right ministers Bezalel Smotrich and Itamar Ben-Gvir, threatens to complicate the voting process, but the deal will still secure majority support.

The deal establishes detailed reciprocal obligations. Senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan told Qatar’s Alaraby Television Network in an interview on Thursday that Israeli forces will withdraw from Gaza City, northern Gaza, as well as southern Gaza’s Rafah and Khan Younis, while five border crossings will reopen for humanitarian aid.

“Drone operations in the Gaza Strip’s airspace will cease during the prisoner release process,” which will involve “250 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences and 1,700 other prisoners,” he added.

Informed Palestinian sources told Xinhua that Hamas has provided mediators with prisoner lists “according to agreed criteria,” awaiting final approval, and has begun relocating Israeli detainees to safe locations ahead of handover to the International Committee of the Red Cross.

The Israeli Public Broadcasting Corporation reported that three Israeli army divisions have started pulling out of Gaza City since Wednesday night in preparation for redeployment around Khan Younis.

The Israel Defense Forces confirmed Thursday that it has “begun operational preparations” for the first of a three-phase withdrawal from Gaza, adding that “preparations and combat protocols are underway to transition to adjusted deployment lines soon.”

However, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz also ordered the military to respond with “great force” to any potential threat or attack by Hamas in Gaza against Israeli forces.

According to an Israeli government spokeswoman, hostages would probably begin being released on Saturday or Sunday.

Hospitals in the Tel Aviv area, where the hostages are expected to arrive for medical checks and recovery, also said they are making preparations.

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In central Tel Aviv’s Hostages Square, family members of Israeli hostages embraced as reports spread of their loved ones’ imminent return. Einav Zangauker, mother of hostage Matan Zangauker, and Anat and Haggai Angrest, parents of soldier Matan Angrest, burst into tears of excitement in a video shared online.

“Matan and Matan are on their way home,” Zangauker said. “From now on, this square will be called the Square of Hope!”

In Gaza, news of the ceasefire triggered spontaneous celebrations amid the ruins. “I want to cry and dance at the same time,” Hussein al-Hindi, a 45-year-old displaced carpenter and father of three from the town of al-Zawaida in central Gaza, told Xinhua.

“For two years, we lived without sleep, listening only to explosions and the screams of the wounded,” said al-Hindi, who now lives in a makeshift tent. “I still can’t believe the war has truly stopped … I wake up every morning expecting the airstrikes to begin again. All we want now is to rebuild our homes, send our children back to school, and live normal lives.”

Yet for the many more Gazans traumatized by the devastating conflict, the joy hearing the news is just a flash in the pan. Abdul Majeed Haniyeh, a 52-year-old man from Deir al-Balah, who lost his teenage son in an Israeli airstrike last year, wept as he told Xinhua: “Nothing can compensate for the loss of my child, but at least no other fathers will bury their sons tonight.”

Many Gazans have expressed cautious optimism, aware that previous truces have collapsed and that rebuilding their shattered lives will take years.

“The Gaza we knew no longer exists,” Abed Dahman, a displaced father of five from Khan Younis, told Xinhua outside his tent. “We have to start from zero … What we need now is not just promises but real reconstruction and a future for our children.”

Despite the deal, 11 people were killed and 49 others injured by Israeli assaults across Gaza over the past 24 hours, including 13 wounded while seeking aid, Gaza-based health authorities said Thursday.

The conflict, erupted on Oct. 7, 2023 when a large-scale Hamas attack on southern Israel killed roughly 1,200 people and took about 250 hostages, has destroyed about 80 percent of Gaza’s infrastructure and displaced nearly 2 million residents, apart from creating human casualties, according to UN estimates.

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The ceasefire deal has drawn widespread support from regional countries and organizations, which see it as a potential opening for broader political progress.

Hamdan described the deal as “the fruit of the steadfastness and sacrifices of the Palestinian people over two years of ongoing Israeli aggression,” while Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas called for the deal to become “a prelude to reaching a permanent political solution.”

In a press statement, Abbas emphasized the need to establish an independent Palestinian state based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, stressing that “sovereignty over Gaza belongs to the State of Palestine.” He also outlined key requirements for the deal’s success: immediate implementation, release of all hostages and prisoners, unrestricted humanitarian access, and a clear reconstruction process.

Jordan and Iraq emphasized the importance of full commitment to the deal and the urgency of addressing Gaza’s humanitarian crisis, while Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan pledged to “closely monitor the strict implementation of the agreement,” and continue contributing to the process as well as advocating for Palestinian statehood.

Egypt, Lebanon, Syria and Oman also endorsed the deal. Egypt called it “a pivotal moment in the war of Gaza,” Lebanese President Joseph Aoun hoped the agreement “will serve as a first step towards a permanent ceasefire,” whereas the latter two highlighted the deal’s potential to facilitate aid delivery and regional stability.

The Arab League also welcomed the breakthrough, with Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit calling it “good news for the people in Gaza after two years of bloodshed.”

Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) Philippe Lazzarini on Thursday called the deal “a respite” for Gaza’s traumatized population.

The UNRWA has three months of supplies ready for immediate distribution, Lazzarini said in a press statement, urging the international community to support the agency in carrying out its work and assisting those in need during this critical period ahead.

However, analysts have cautioned that the deal represents only a first step. Gaza-based Palestinian political analyst Hussam al-Dajani told Xinhua that the deal, although marking an important step toward ending the war, “does not mean the conflict is over.”

“Implementing the deal on the ground requires concrete international guarantees to ensure both sides’ commitment,” al-Dajani said. “Past experiences show that without monitoring, truces collapse quickly.”

Gaza now faces two simultaneous challenges: rebuilding its devastated infrastructure and reorganizing its internal political situation, he said. “Ending the war does not end the suffering … Gaza needs more than words; it needs a sustained international effort to ensure this tragedy is not repeated.”

Yemeni political analyst Yasin Al-Tamimi said while the deal marks a diplomatic breakthrough, “the possibility of continued confrontation remains … as the political and security dynamics that fueled this conflict are far from resolved.”

“A genuine peace process requires a just solution to the Palestinian issue … Without this, any U.S. initiative is bound to fail,” Al-Tamimi told Xinhua.

Nabil al-Bukiri, director of the Arab Forum for Studies and Development, offered a more skeptical view, describing the U.S. role in the deal as more of political posturing and lacking sincerity and substance.

“Without addressing the root of the conflict — the occupation and denial of Palestinian rights,” he said, “talk of comprehensive peace remains an illusion.”

The task force will “oversee, observe, make sure there are no violations” of the deal, a senior U.S. official told reporters.

Members of Egyptian, Qatari and Turkish armed forces would be embedded in the U.S. team, according to the official.

The task force will “not be in Gaza,” another U.S. official said.

The Forum, running from October 9 through 10, builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2023, and focuses on advancing global connectivity amid growing geopolitical and economic challenges.

It brings together high-level representatives from governments, financial institutions, the private sector, and civil society to explore innovative strategies for scaling up Global Gateway investments in partner countries.

As he delivered his speech, Tshisekedi took the stage and reiterated the familiar narrative, accusing Rwanda of supporting the M23 rebel group, a claim Rwanda denied repeatedly.

He called on Rwanda to give the order for the M23 troops, which he claimed were backed by Rwanda, to halt the escalation.

Tshisekedi also stated that his country has never been belligerent towards its neighbors, despite his repeated threats to invade Rwanda, bombard Kigali, and overthrow Rwanda’s leadership, threats that can be validated through multiple reports.

Following a post on X by Patrick Muyaya, which included excerpts from Tshisekedi’s speech, Minister Nduhungirehe reminded them of the truth, refuting the narrative and exposing the lies and distortions of fact.

In response, Nduhungirehe stated, “No, you are wrong on all counts. The only person who can stop this escalation is President Tshisekedi, and HE ALONE.”

Amb. Nduhungirehe went on to address Tshisekedi’s claims, alluding to specifically his public threats of war.

“He can do so by ceasing to display his belligerent attitude, particularly his public threats of invading Rwanda or bombing Kigali, not to mention his disgraceful insults against President Kagame,” Amb. Nduhungirehe asserted, highlighting Tshisekedi’s repeated threats.

The Minister continued, accusing the DRC president of supporting the FDLR genocidaires, a militia responsible for Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.

“He can do so by stopping his support for the FDLR genocidaires, expelling them from his army, and neutralizing them, as required by the Washington Peace Agreement,” Amb. Nduhungirehe declared.

He also criticized the DRC government for its involvement with armed militias, specifically the Wazalendo militia, and the daily bombings by Tshisekedi’s fighter jets and attack drones in eastern DRC, including on Banyamulenge villages and densely populated areas.

The Minister further accused Tshisekedi of deploying foreign mercenaries and violating international agreements.

“He can do so by stopping the use of Burundian soldiers and mercenaries, formerly Romanians and now Colombians,” Amb. Nduhungirehe added, pointing out violations of a 1977 OAU resolution and a 1989 UN Convention.

Amb. Nduhungirehe also condemned Tshisekedi’s use of international platforms for political maneuvering.

“Finally, he can do so by stopping this ridiculous political farce of exploiting a platform at an important economic partnership summit to launch accusations and lies,” the Minister concluded.

Rwanda-DRC diplomatic relations have faced setbacks since the resurgence of the M23 rebel group in 2021, which highlighted the rights of marginalized Congolese Tutsi and Banyamulenge communities.

Since then, the DRC has accused Rwanda of supporting the M23, an accusation Kigali vehemently denies, urging the DRC to address its own issues rather than blame its neighbor.

Various mediation efforts have been underway, including a peace deal signed in Washington and an M23-DRC dialogue facilitated by Qatar.

However, the DRC has been criticized for shifting its stance and lacking the willingness to implement resolutions, hindering lasting peace in eastern DRC.

This includes the recent last-minute blockage of the Regional Economic Integration Framework, which was not signed at Tshisekedi’s request in Washington.

The Forum, which builds on the success of its inaugural edition in 2023, focuses on advancing global connectivity amid growing geopolitical and geoeconomic challenges. It brings together high-level representatives from governments, financial institutions, the private sector, and civil society to explore innovative strategies for scaling up Global Gateway investments in partner countries.

Later today, President Kagame is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, to discuss Rwanda’s partnership with the European Union.

The 2025 Forum provides a platform for participating countries and institutions to strengthen collaboration, identify investment opportunities, and promote sustainable development through enhanced global connectivity.

According to a post on X by the Presidency on Thursday, the discussions highlighted “ongoing efforts to advance peace in the Great Lakes region, and Rwanda’s continuous commitment to lasting peace and security.”

The meeting comes at a critical moment in the U.S.-mediated peace process between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). The two countries signed the Washington Accord on June 27, 2025. The agreement was designed to dismantle the FDLR militia, composed of remnants of the perpetrators of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, and to lift Rwanda’s defensive posture along the border.

However, implementation of the peace deal has faced challenges. Tensions deepened last week when the DRC declined, at the last minute, to sign the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF). The framework was expected to bolster economic cooperation between Kigali and Kinshasa and strengthen regional integration efforts.

“The Rwandan delegation in Washington, D.C. this week was ready to sign the Regional Economic Integration Framework (REIF), which benefits both our countries and the region,” Government Spokesperson Yolande Makolo wrote on X on October 4.

“We are puzzled by the DRC’s last-minute decision not to sign the agreement, given the positive atmosphere of the negotiations … and the diligent mediation work of Senior Advisor Massad Boulos and the State Department.”

Despite the setback, Rwanda has reiterated its commitment to both the peace agreement and the broader U.S.-facilitated mediation efforts.

“Rwanda believes in the peace agreement and in the approach of the U.S. mediation, and hopes that the REIF will eventually be signed,” Makolo added. “The peace process must succeed. It is the best chance for stability and economic development for our region.”

President Kagame’s meeting with Boulos on Thursday signals continued U.S. engagement in the Great Lakes, even as the region navigates setbacks in both security and economic cooperation tracks.

Her passing was confirmed by family members and colleagues at Transparency International Rwanda.

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In various interviews with IGIHE, Ingabire shared that she was deeply affected by the traumatic experiences of her childhood, particularly the hardship of living as a refugee.

These experiences fueled her passion for fighting injustice and corruption.

As a young girl, Ingabire realized that her family’s home in Burundi was not truly theirs. This revelation sparked her determination to return to her homeland, Rwanda, and contribute to its development with all her strength and knowledge.

Although she grew up in Burundi, where her family had sought refuge, she always dreamed of returning to Rwanda. She had grown weary of the life of persecution and lack of full rights, a situation she faced as a refugee.

Ingabire attended primary and secondary school in Burundi and pursued university studies in other countries before returning to Rwanda.

She held a Master’s Degree in Gender Studies and Human Rights (University of Pretoria – South Africa), a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Communication (Université de Lille – France), and a Diploma in Law and Human Rights from Institut de Droits de l’Homme de Strasbourg, France.

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Ingabire is one of the founding members of Transparency International Rwanda, established in 2004. In 2015, she was elected for the second term as the organization’s chairperson.

In an interview with IGIHE, she stated, “Before joining Transparency International Rwanda, I worked at many institutions, but my focus was always on women’s rights and advocating for sustainable development.”

“I worked at ORINFOR for many years, and also in various print media outlets, as well as with organizations such as Pro Femmes Twese Hamwe, IBUKA, and other women’s rights groups.”

Ingabire was known for her outspoken nature, often condemning wrongdoings publicly, which occasionally led to people labeling her as an antagonist. However, she once stated that those who saw her in that light were misunderstanding her.

She said, “It’s true that people often misunderstand me because of my work, which requires making tough decisions. But in reality, I am just a simple person who is humble and approachable. I have no quarrels or grudges against anyone. I’ve never fought anyone since I was born.”

Throughout her life, Ingabire lived by three core principles: prayer, respect, and perseverance.

The group, which included Mandla Mandela, grandson of late former President Nelson Mandela, was greeted by hundreds of supporters waving Palestinian flags and holding placards reading “Children need love, not bombs.” They arrived in Jordan on Tuesday before returning home.

Addressing a press briefing at OR Tambo International Airport, Mandela appeared emotional as he recounted their long and difficult journey, saying that the focus should remain on the people of Palestine, who have endured atrocities under the Israeli government for years.

“Ours was a humanitarian mission to break the blockade and end the siege and get aid to Gaza,” he said, noting that there was no violence accompanying their actions.

Mandela said that the Israeli government intercepted dozens of their boats in international waters, calling it a violation of international law and human rights

During six days of detention, Mandela said they were subjected to dehumanizing conditions, including being denied food and the opportunity to shower.

Following their arrest, he said they were handcuffed with wires tied tightly behind their backs and “paraded.” “We were taken to detention and denied food, but it’s nothing compared to what Palestinians have been subjected to,” Mandela noted.

Israel imposed a blockade on Gaza in 2007 after Hamas seized control of the enclave. The restrictions were further tightened following Hamas’s cross-border assault into southern Israel in October 2023.

In response to the blockade, activists from around the world established the Global Sumud Flotilla to deliver humanitarian aid and medical supplies to the people of Gaza.

The flotilla, made up of nearly 50 civilian boats carrying about 500 activists from multiple countries, had spent time in the waters before being detained by the Israeli authorities.

“This means that ALL of the Hostages will be released very soon, and Israel will withdraw their Troops to an agreed upon line as the first steps toward a Strong, Durable, and Everlasting Peace,” Trump wrote.

He thanked mediators from Qatar, Egypt and Türkiye for the “historic and unprecedented event.”

Speaking to reporters earlier in the day at the White House, Trump said he may travel to the Middle East “sometime toward the end of the week.”

Israel and Hamas began indirect negotiations over a Gaza ceasefire in Egypt’s Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday.

Since the war erupted on Oct. 7, 2023, Israeli airstrikes have devastated the Gaza Strip, causing widespread famine and displacement, and killing at least 67,183 people and injuring 169,841 others, according to Gaza’s health authorities.