Friday , February 14 2025

Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough: Hostages Freed and Aid Delivered Israel-Hamas Deal

Gaza Ceasefire Breakthrough Hostages Freed and Aid Delivered Israel-Hamas DealIsrael and Hamas Reach Ceasefire Agreement with Hostage Release Deal

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a Gaza Ceasefire and hostage release deal following 15 months of intense conflict, as confirmed by mediators Qatar and the US. The agreement, which is expected to take effect on Sunday, is pending final approval by the Israeli cabinet.

Key Highlights of the Agreement:

  • 33 hostages, including women, children, and elderly individuals, will be exchanged for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody.
  • Israeli forces will withdraw from densely populated areas in Gaza, allowing displaced Palestinians to start returning home.
  • Hundreds of aid trucks will be permitted into Gaza daily to address severe shortages of food, fuel, and medicine.

US President Joe Biden called the agreement a step toward halting the violence and providing essential humanitarian aid to Gaza. He acknowledged the role of Qatari, Egyptian, and American diplomacy in facilitating the deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also expressed gratitude for US support but emphasized that details are still being finalized.

Situation on the Ground

Despite the announcement, Israeli airstrikes reportedly killed more than 20 people, including residents of a block in Sheikh Radwan, Gaza City. Over 46,700 people in Gaza have died since the war began in October 2023, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

Phases of the Agreement:

  1. First Phase: Hostages will be released, and aid delivery will begin.
  2. Second Phase: Further negotiations will aim for the release of remaining hostages and a full Israeli withdrawal.
  3. Final Phase: Reconstruction of Gaza and the return of any remaining hostages’ bodies.
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Reactions and Celebrations

  • Families of hostages and displaced Palestinians celebrated the announcement. In Gaza, residents expressed hope for an end to the terror they endured.
  • Israeli supporters of the hostages’ families in Tel Aviv welcomed the news, though many stressed the need for continued efforts to ensure the safe return of all captives.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized that the priority now is alleviating suffering and rebuilding Gaza. However, both sides acknowledge that significant challenges lie ahead.

This ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for peace after months of devastation. Whether it leads to a sustainable resolution remains to be seen.