The first phase of a peace deal for Gaza is due to be signed today.

Negotiators representing Israel and Hamas agreed to the first phase of an US-backed peace plan during ongoing meetings in Egypt.

President Donald Trump, announced the breakthrough shortly before midnight.

The first phase of the landmark deal will see the release of around 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for the remaining 48 hostages being freed by Hamas.

Israel's Defense Forces are due to withdraw from Gaza, to an agreed position, while a ceasefire is due to take effect once the deal is approved by Israel's Government.

An aerial photograph taken by a drone shows the destruction caused by the Israeli air and ground offensive, in Rafah, Gaza Strip. Image: AP Photo/Jehad Alshrafi. 24 January 2025

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is meeting with Government ministers later this afternoon to ratify the agreement.

But James Zogby, from the Arab-American Institute, based in Washington DC, said there is still a lot of work to be done to bring lasting peace to Gaza.

"The bombing will stop, which is great. The prisoners will be returned, and the hostages released which is great.

"But there are many steps forward before this becomes a real peace agreement.

"We have to see whether or not President Trump is going to stay engaged enough to make it happen.

"We're down to point two of 20, so there's a lot more that has to be done".

2SRAJ0H Dublin, Ireland - 15th February 2025 - a Palestinian flag flying at the 'Tell Trump Hands off Gaza' protest by the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign in Dublin

The Irish Government has welcomed the agreement of the peace deal.

Taoiseach Micheál Martin, has urged all sides to abide by the ceasefire, the release of all hostages and an immediate surge in aid deliveries to Palestine.

Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs, Simon Harris, said Ireland stands ready to assist in every practical way.