Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement after 15 months of intense conflict in Gaza, with mediators expressing hope that it will bring an end to the devastating war. The agreement, which includes the release of remaining hostages and increased humanitarian aid, was announced by Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin al-Thani.
The ceasefire, set to take effect on Sunday, will unfold in three phases. According to an FT report, the first phase includes a 42-day truce, the release of 33 Israeli hostages, and a significant increase in aid to Gaza. Negotiations for the next phases, which include the release of additional hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and Gaza’s reconstruction, are expected to follow.
While Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the deal, it emphasized that some details, particularly concerning the identity of Palestinian prisoners to be released, are still being finalized. The Israeli government is expected to vote on the agreement, despite opposition from far-right ministers.
Celebrations erupted across the region as news of the agreement spread, with many Palestinians and Israelis expressing cautious optimism. US President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump both praised the efforts of mediators in brokering the deal, highlighting its potential to bring peace and humanitarian relief to the region.