Israel and Hamas have come to a tentative agreement on a phased ceasefire intended to end the ongoing conflict in Gaza, as announced by President Biden and Qatar’s Prime Minister on Wednesday. This agreement aims to provide humanitarian relief to Palestinian civilians, facilitate the reunion of hostages with their families after more than 15 months, and ultimately cease the fighting.
Biden indicated that this deal mirrors a proposal made in May 2024 that received endorsement from the United Nations Security Council. Although neither party has officially confirmed the details, sources close to negotiations reported positive steps toward a resolution, with a start date for the ceasefire set for Sunday.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office mentioned several unresolved issues but expressed optimism that finalization could occur quickly. The ceasefire follows weeks of indirect negotiations in Doha, facilitated by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar, and included participation from both the Biden administration and President-elect Donald Trump’s team.
The first phase of the ceasefire, lasting six weeks, will involve a complete halt to hostilities and withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, alongside the release of some hostages held by Hamas and an increase in humanitarian aid. In exchange, Hamas is anticipated to release a certain number of Israeli hostages, although specifics regarding the number remain unclear. President Biden highlighted the importance of rapidly sending humanitarian assistance into Gaza.
Although Palestinian officials reported continued violence on the day of the announcement, there is cautious hope that a sustainable peace might emerge. The plan will include a second phase that aims for a permanent cessation of war following further negotiations.
This agreement represents the first formal truce since a brief ceasefire in November 2023, which allowed for a limited exchange of hostages. The ongoing conflict, which began on October 7, 2023, has resulted in significant loss of life on both sides, with over 46,000 Palestinians and 405 Israeli soldiers reported dead.
Families of hostages welcomed the ceasefire news with relief, expressing gratitude to international mediators for their efforts. The humanitarian perspective remains critical, with UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasizing the need to alleviate the suffering caused by the conflict and facilitate unhindered humanitarian efforts.
As this situation continues to evolve, there is hope that through diplomatic engagement and ongoing negotiations, lasting peace may be achieved, benefiting both Palestinians and Israelis alike. The steps taken so far indicate a willingness from both sides to engage in dialogue, offering a potential turning point in a long-standing conflict.