Anderson Cooper 360 Trump: Israel & Hamas Signed Off On “First Phase” Of Gaza Deal
Oct 9, 2025
Ambassador Roger Carstens, former Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs, shares insights following President Trump's announcement of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas. He discusses the operational details for hostage releases, emphasizing Israel's preparations and expectations for prisoner exchanges. The conversation delves into the regional dynamics, with analysts pondering whether Hamas will remain influential or dissolve. Carstens highlights the challenges ahead in the aftermath of conflict and the humanitarian needs in Gaza.
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First Phase Announces Ceasefire And Hostage Release
- President Trump announced a "first phase" deal where Israel and Hamas agreed to a ceasefire and hostages' release.
- The White House framed this as the start of a multi-phase plan toward a durable peace backed by regional mediators.
Phased Withdrawal And Transition Plan
- The deal starts with Israeli troop withdrawals to agreed control lines and an immediate hostages-for-prisoners exchange.
- Further phases envision Hamas disarming and handing power to a transitional technocratic authority in Gaza.
Hostage Release Removes Hamas's Key Leverage
- Experts called the announcement momentous and said releasing all hostages removes Hamas's main leverage.
- They warned the transition and disarmament phases will be politically and practically difficult.