Israel-Hamas Agree to Ceasefire in Gaza, Prisoners from Both Sides to Be Released
Israel-Hamas Agree to Ceasefire in Gaza, Prisoners from Both Sides to Be Released
After prolonged negotiations, Hamas and Israel have agreed to a ceasefire deal. The news was reported by the Reuters news agency, citing an official involved in the talks, on Wednesday (January 15, 2025).
According to the report, there has been no formal announcement of the ceasefire yet. However, a senior official revealed that an initial phase of a six-week ceasefire has been agreed upon. The deal includes the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip and the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel in exchange for the release of Israeli prisoners held by Hamas.
The negotiations have been mediated by Egypt and Qatar. U.S. President Joe Biden, before the transfer of power, had pledged to end the Middle Eastern conflict. The agreement was finalized just before the inauguration of the newly elected President Donald Trump.
Earlier on Monday, a meeting was held in Doha, Qatar, where representatives of both Biden and Trump were present. It remains to be seen how the U.S. foreign policy will change with the transition of power.
Hamas, the main Palestinian militant organization in Gaza, has confirmed that their delegation has agreed to the ceasefire and the return of prisoners. A Palestinian official, who requested anonymity, told Reuters that Hamas has given a verbal agreement to the deal and is waiting for further details before giving final written approval.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gidion Saar announced that he would cut short his European tour and return to Israel tonight. Upon returning, he will participate in a vote in the Security Cabinet and the government, which is expected to be completed by Thursday.
It is important to note that this war, which began on October 7, 2023, has claimed thousands of lives and resulted in the destruction of homes, hospitals, and religious structures.
