WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) - President Joe Biden says Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal to pause the war in Gaza and release hostages. President Biden says this was one of the toughest negotiations he's ever experienced, but it means dozens of hostages will be reunited with their families in just days and the people of Gaza will have the chance to recover after enduring months of deadly bombings. "I am proud to say Americans will be part of that hostage release in phase one,” said Biden. The three-phase plan guarantees the release of dozens of hostages within six weeks. "In exchange, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners,” said Biden. Following the news, crowds swarmed the streets of Tel Aviv and Gaza. On Capitol Hill, senators interrupted the confirmation hearing for President-elect Donald Trump's secretary of state. Republican senators quickly credited the incoming president for the agreement. “I do believe President Trump had an impact on this deal,” said Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas.). On Truth Social Trump wrote, "This is only the beginning of great things to come for America, and indeed, the World!" Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer thanked negotiators from the Biden administration and Middle East who spent months working out the details. "It couldn't have happened without steadfast diplomacy and until the potency of Hamas was radically reduced,” said Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.). Texas Republican Senator John Cornyn says he's waiting to read the details. “The question is what's the price we're paying,” said Cornyn. The deal goes into effect on Sunday.