Israel and Hamas Ceasefire Deal: Six-Week Truce Announced

The deal, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the

United States, is set to take effect on Sunday

according to Qatar’s Prime Minister

Special Correspondent

Doha: Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire, marking the end of over 460 days of war that devastated Gaza. The deal, mediated by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, is set to take effect on Sunday, according to Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani.

Key Highlights of the Ceasefire Deal

• Hostage Exchange: Thirty-three Israeli captives, including women, children, and civilians over 50, will be released. In exchange, Israel will free hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including those detained after October 2023.
• Troop Withdrawal: Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from Gaza’s population centers, retaining a limited presence in specific areas during the initial phase.
• Humanitarian Aid Surge: Up to 600 trucks of aid will be allowed daily into Gaza, addressing critical shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.

Initial Six-Week Phase

The first phase of the truce includes:

• A partial withdrawal of Israeli troops to positions within 700 meters of Gaza’s border, excluding the Netzarim Corridor.
• The reopening of the Rafah crossing with Egypt, seven days after implementation begins.
• The evacuation of wounded Palestinians for medical treatment outside Gaza.

Rebuilding Amidst Devastation

The war, which began in October 2023, has claimed over 46,000 Palestinian lives and displaced most of Gaza’s 2.3 million residents. Many homes in northern Gaza have been destroyed, leaving returning families with little to rebuild.

The agreement aims to ease the humanitarian crisis, with international organizations, including the UN and Red Cross, preparing to scale up aid operations.

What Comes Next?

Negotiations for the second and third phases are set to begin during the initial truce. The second phase may include the release of remaining hostages and Israel’s complete withdrawal from Gaza. The third phase could focus on the return of deceased captives and Gaza’s reconstruction under international supervision.

Global Reactions

World leaders, including US President Joe Biden, welcomed the agreement, calling it a vital step to ease tensions in the region. Biden emphasized the importance of the deal in halting violence, reuniting hostages with their families, and addressing Gaza’s humanitarian needs.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and the United Nations also hailed the agreement, expressing hope for lasting peace.

Challenges Ahead

Despite the breakthrough, concerns remain. Israeli airstrikes continued in Gaza even after the announcement, killing dozens in northern Gaza. Opposition from hardliners within Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government poses another challenge.

Negotiators will need to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement, with many stakeholders eyeing the long-term governance and reconstruction of Gaza.