Israel and Hamas, after 15 months of war, have finalized a Gaza ceasefire agreement, according to the mediators from Qatar and the United States—Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani. Qatar’s Prime Minister announced the deal would commence on Sunday, pending the approval of the Israeli cabinet.
US President Joe Biden confirmed the agreement, emphasizing that it would halt the war in Gaza, deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians, and reunite hostages with their families. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged Biden’s role in the negotiation and expressed gratitude for his contributions.
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya credited Palestinian resilience for the agreement. Furthermore, he warned of continued vigilance. Following the announcement, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed over 20 people in Gaza, including 12 residents of the Sheikh Radwan neighborhood.
Since October 2023, Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry has reported over 46,700 deaths, widespread displacement, and critical shortages of food, medicine, and shelter. The ceasefire plan will unfold in three phases.
The initial six-week phase includes the release of 33 hostages by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. While enabling hundreds of humanitarian supplies every day and easing the return of the displaced people, Israeli forces will withdraw from heavily populated areas of Gaza.
The goals of the later stages are to guarantee the release of every hostage, begin the complete removal of Israeli troops, and start rebuilding Gaza. Qatar, Egypt, and the United States will monitor adherence to the agreement. Biden noted the plan results from months of diplomacy, regional changes, and pressure on Hamas.
President-elect Donald Trump, who took office on Monday, also contributed to hostage negotiations. Celebrations erupted in Gaza and Israel as families hoped for relief from the prolonged conflict.
Survivors and hostages’ families expressed mixed emotions, recognizing the deal as a first step toward peace. Both leaders and citizens focus on the long road ahead to rebuild lives and achieve stability under the Gaza ceasefire agreement.
