DOHA, Qatar — A ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, as announced by mediators on Wednesday, leading to a potential end to one of the deadliest conflicts in the region. This truce raises the chance to halt the hostilities that have persisted and wreaked havoc in the Gaza Strip for over 15 months.
The ceasefire, which is structured in three phases, includes provisions for the release of numerous hostages held by Hamas in Gaza in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Additionally, it aims to facilitate the return of the countless people displaced in Gaza, as well as to ensure that much-needed humanitarian aid is delivered to the area that has faced devastation.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, the Prime Minister of Qatar, announced that the ceasefire would commence on Sunday. His declaration took place in Doha, where negotiations have been ongoing for several weeks.
U.S. President Joe Biden expressed his approval of the agreement from Washington, emphasizing that the ceasefire would remain intact as long as both parties continue negotiations for a comprehensive truce. He praised months of diligent American diplomacy for contributing to the agreement and noted a unified approach between his administration and that of President-elect Donald Trump during negotiations.
In an official statement from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office, it was indicated that final details were still being completed, with hopes of finalizing them by that evening. An Israeli official familiar with the discussions, speaking anonymously, mentioned that the details primarily focus on confirming the list of Palestinian prisoners set for release. Any final agreement must receive approval from Netanyahu’s Cabinet.
Once the first phase of this deal begins, a six-week suspension of hostilities is anticipated, during which negotiations toward a broader peace settlement will take place. Over this time, 33 out of nearly 100 hostages are projected to reunite with their families after enduring months of captivity without external contact, though their fates remain uncertain.
There is still ambiguity surrounding the timeline and number of displaced Palestinians who will be permitted to return home, as well as whether the agreement could lead to a complete cessation of war and the total withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza—both of which are pressing demands from Hamas for releasing the remaining captives.
Significant questions regarding Gaza’s management following the conflict linger, including the future governance of the territory and accountability for its reconstruction after the extensive devastation that the war has inflicted, which has also disrupted stability in the broader Middle East and sparked global protests.
The conflict was initiated when Hamas executed a cross-border assault on October 7, 2023, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities in Israel and the capture of 250 hostages. In retaliation, Israel launched a vigorous military campaign that, according to local health authorities, has resulted in over 46,000 Palestinian deaths, though the figures do not differentiate between civilians and militants, indicating a significant proportion of casualties are women and children.
In November, a brief truce led to the release of more than 100 hostages from Gaza. The recent breakthrough was achieved through the mediation of the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, following months of indirect discussions, which held the promise of peace amidst the ongoing turmoil. This development follows another ceasefire agreed upon between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon last month, amid more than a year of conflict related to the war in Gaza.
International aid organizations estimate that around 90% of Gaza’s population of 2.3 million have faced displacement, often repeatedly. Reports indicate extensive destruction of housing and the near collapse of healthcare services, raising concerns of a potential famine in northern Gaza.
In a heartening response, Palestinian father Abed Radwan, who has been displaced from his hometown for over a year, described the ceasefire announcement as one of life-altering significance. Emotions ran high as civilians in Gaza City celebrated in the background during his conversation, expressing disbelief and gratitude at the prospect of peace.
In Israel, hundreds gathered in Tel Aviv outside military headquarters, advocating for finalization of a deal to bring hostages home. Many demonstrators showcased images of loved ones held captive by Hamas or held candles to symbolize hope. On the other hand, some families remained skeptical, anxiously awaiting confirmation that hostages would return safely.
The Hostage Families Forum voiced their optimism regarding the new developments, noting that after 460 days of separation, they were finally closer to reuniting with their loved ones.
Following the announcement, Biden reiterated components of a previously outlined ceasefire agreement established on May 31, which aimed to facilitate a total ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from densely populated areas in Gaza, and the exchange of hostages alongside a surge of humanitarian assistance into the beleaguered territory.
The second phase of the truce is expected to be the most challenging and would involve the release of all remaining hostages, including male soldiers, while concluding with a significant reconstruction effort in Gaza, addressing the extensive damage inflicted by the prolonged conflict.
While Hamas has insisted on guarantees for a permanent halt to hostilities and full withdrawal of Israeli forces, Israel has consistently stated it would not stop operations until eliminating Hamas’ military capabilities. As the Biden administration nears its end, both sides face intense pressure for a resolution.
President-elect Donald Trump lauded the agreement through social media, noting that hostages would soon be released. Analysts remarked at the importance of bipartisan support in U.S. foreign policy, highlighting individuals such as Trump and Biden for their respective roles in facilitating the ceasefire.
The ongoing war and its aftermath have sparked debates regarding the future of governance in Gaza. Israel is exploring possible partnerships with local Palestinians unaffiliated with Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, although such collaborations may prove challenging as Hamas continues to exert control over the territory.
Overall, as the conflict draws down, the prospect of a durable resolution remains uncertain, marked by political complexities and the pressing need for humanitarian support and reconstruction in Gaza. The path forward will require carefully navigating these multifaceted issues that continue to unfold as tensions in the region evolve.
