The first phase of a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas is underway, facilitating a hostage exchange that includes Israeli hostages and approximately 2,000 Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. The Israeli military has begun withdrawing from parts of Gaza, signaling a potential end to over two years of conflict. However, skepticism remains due to previous failed agreements. In a separate development, New York Attorney General Letitia James has been indicted on bank fraud charges, which critics argue are politically motivated following pressure from former President Trump. The indictment alleges that James misrepresented her mortgage application for a property in Virginia. This situation has raised alarms regarding the use of the Justice Department for political purposes. Meanwhile, the U.S. is deploying troops to oversee the ceasefire agreement, highlighting the ongoing complexities in the region.