Hamas, the Palestinian militant organisation, has reportedly accepted a draft agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages.
The US, Egypt, and Qatar have been engaged in talks for the past year to bring an end to the ongoing conflict, which was triggered by Hamas’s attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.
The war, now spanning over 15 months, has led to severe loss of life and significant destruction, with Gaza particularly hard-hit by Israeli airstrikes. The ceasefire agreement marks a potential breakthrough in the conflict, with both sides inching closer to a resolution.
Hamas’s acceptance of the ceasefire deal and hostages release comes after significant mediation efforts from international actors, including the US, Egypt, and Qatar.
According to reports, the proposed agreement would involve the gradual release of 33 hostages over six weeks, alongside a cessation of hostilities.
The details of the agreement are still being finalised, and Israeli officials have confirmed that progress has been made, though a final approval from the Israeli Cabinet is still pending.
One key aspect of the deal involves the exchange of hostages, with both Hamas and Israel agreeing to swap detainees. In the first phase, some 33 hostages, including women, children, and elderly civilians, would be released by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
This phase is expected to last 42 days and would also involve a partial Israeli withdrawal from population centres in Gaza, allowing Palestinians to return to their homes. Additionally, humanitarian aid would be increased, with hundreds of trucks delivering essential supplies to the region daily.
The second phase of the agreement is still under negotiation and remains a major point of contention. While Hamas has agreed to the initial terms, including the release of hostages, the issue of Israel’s military presence in Gaza is yet to be resolved.
Hamas has demanded a full Israeli withdrawal from the region, while Israel is determined to maintain a presence until all hostages are returned. There are also concerns about the long-term political situation in Gaza, particularly with regard to the role of Hamas, which has governed the territory since 2007.
The final phase of the agreement would involve the return of the bodies of any remaining hostages, with a reconstruction plan for Gaza to follow. This plan would be supervised by international bodies, with the aim of rebuilding the war-torn region.
The reconstruction effort would be contingent on Hamas’s adherence to the terms of the ceasefire agreement, as well as the return of all hostages.
As the deadline for US President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration approaches, the pressure to secure a ceasefire has intensified.
Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, has joined the ongoing negotiations, and the incoming US administration has expressed optimism that a deal could be reached before Trump takes office.
Hamas has criticised Israel for undermining previous negotiations, claiming that Israel has repeatedly rejected proposals and escalated military operations, making it difficult to reach a lasting agreement.
Despite these setbacks, both sides are reportedly closer than ever to finalising a ceasefire deal. While the situation remains fluid, there is cautious optimism that this agreement could pave the way for peace in the region.
The international community, including the United Nations and the US, continues to push for a resolution, urging both Israel and Hamas to uphold the terms of the agreement and prioritise the safety and well-being of civilians.
