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 1. Gaza : First Phase Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Sparks Cautious Celebration A first phase agreement between Israel and Hamas part of a broader US backed plan has produced a fragile ceasefire and the prospect of phased hostage releases, prompting scenes of relief and celebration in parts of Israel and Gaza. Mediators from the US, Egypt, Qatar and Turkey say the deal aims to exchange hostages for Palestinian prisoners while opening humanitarian corridors for food, fuel and medical aid. Implementation will be monitoring to reduce the risk of spoilers. Israeli officials have warned that operations could resume if security guarantees fail, while Palestinian leaders strees that reconstruction and governance arrangements must follow. UN agencies and aid groups have urged rapid, unfettered access to avert catastrophic shortages. Diplomats caution the deal is only a first step :trust building, donor pledges and robust oversight will determine whether it holds. Intense diplomatic activity ...