Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire and Hostage Release, Ending 15 Months of War

TDT | Manama

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In a significant development, the Israeli government and Hamas have reached a deal that will pause the ongoing fighting in Gaza, marking a potential breakthrough in the region's year-long conflict. Sources close to the negotiations, speaking to CNN, confirmed that the deal, which is yet to be officially announced, will lead to the phased release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

The deal's first stage is expected to see Hamas and its militant allies release 33 Israeli hostages who were captured during the October 7, 2023, attacks. In exchange, Israel will release about 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences. This move is seen as a significant step towards reducing tensions and providing relief to families on both sides.

The agreement comes after more than a year of relentless warfare, making it the first real opportunity for a reprieve for the people of Gaza. Once fully confirmed, the deal will not only lead to a pause in fighting but also allow Palestinian civilians to return to northern Gaza, which has been largely inaccessible since the onset of the Israeli bombardment.

Additionally, the deal will facilitate a massive influx of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, which has been suffering from dire conditions throughout the conflict. With a humanitarian crisis at its peak, the agreement promises to provide much-needed relief to the civilian population.

Outlines of the First Stage of the Looming Gaza Deal:

1. Israeli Military Withdrawal: Israeli forces will pull back to within 700 meters (2,297 feet) inside Gaza as part of the first stage.
2. Palestinian Prisoner Releases: Israel will release approximately 2,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 250 serving life sentences.
3. Hostage Releases: Palestinian militant groups are expected to free 33 Israeli captives.
4. Humanitarian Assistance: The deal will enable injured Gaza residents to travel for medical treatment, offering crucial support to those in need.
5. Opening of Rafah Crossing: Seven days after the first stage begins, Israel will open the Rafah crossing to Egypt, allowing vital supplies to enter Gaza.
6. Philadelphi Corridor Withdrawal: Israeli forces will gradually pull back from Gaza’s border with Egypt, known as the Philadelphi Corridor, with full withdrawal anticipated in later stages.

This deal holds the potential to provide a rare moment of calm and hope in Gaza, offering both humanitarian relief and a chance for peace in a region long embroiled in conflict. As the first stage of this deal unfolds, the world will closely watch whether this breakthrough leads to a broader path towards long-term stability in the Middle East.