India, Oct. 13 -- The Gaza conflict entered a pivotal phase as Israel and Hamas agreed to a U.S.-brokered ceasefire that includes the release of Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners - a breakthrough hailed as the most significant diplomatic step since fighting erupted. The deal, announced by Washington and welcomed cautiously by regional powers, comes after months of back-channel negotiations led by U.S. President Donald Trump's envoys. While the truce offers a fragile hope for calm, both sides remain wary, with observers noting that its success hinges on sustained international pressure and ground-level restraint amid deep mistrust and humanitarian devastation in Gaza.

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