Palestinians celebrate in Al-Mawasi, Rafah, Gaza Strip, on Oct. 9, 2025, following news of a new Gaza ceasefire deal. Abdelrahman Rashad/Middle East Images via AFP via Getty Images
Democrats have reacted positively to the first phase of a Israel–Hamas cease-fire and hostage deal announced Oct. 9 by President Donald Trump, while emphasizing immediate relief for civilians, the return of all hostages, and a clear path to durable peace.
Details provided by the White House and mediators indicate the first phase will pause fighting, freeze battle lines, and facilitate a hostage–prisoner exchange alongside an Israeli pullback to an agreed line.
