Qatar Hands “Final” Gaza Ceasefire Deal to Israel and Hamas, Officials Confirm

TDT | Manama

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Qatar has presented Israel and Hamas with a “final” draft for a ceasefire and hostage release agreement, aiming to end the devastating war in Gaza. An official familiar with the negotiations revealed the breakthrough occurred early Monday in Doha, following intensive discussions involving Israeli intelligence officials, U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's Middle East envoy, and Qatar's Prime Minister.

The urgency of these talks is underscored by the impending transition in U.S. leadership. President Joe Biden, whose administration has been actively involved, is racing to finalize a deal before leaving office on January 20. On Sunday, Biden held a phone call with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss progress. According to a White House statement, Biden emphasized the “immediate need for a ceasefire in Gaza,” along with the safe return of hostages and a surge in humanitarian aid contingent on halting the fighting.

Israel initiated its military operation in Gaza after a surprise attack by Hamas fighters in October 2023, which left 1,200 Israelis dead and over 250 hostages captured. The conflict has since escalated into a humanitarian catastrophe. Palestinian health officials report more than 46,000 fatalities in Gaza, with widespread destruction, mass displacement, and dire humanitarian conditions throughout the enclave.

The proposed agreement marks a critical juncture in the conflict, with hopes pinned on Qatar’s mediation efforts to bring an end to the hostilities and ease the suffering of civilians caught in the crossfire.