Credited from: INDEPENDENT
With renewed hopes for peace in the region, Hamas and Israel are nearing an agreement for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, one that could also see the release of hostages taken during the escalating conflict. After extensive negotiations mediated by Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt, officials from both sides have expressed cautious optimism that an agreement is imminent. Hamas has accepted the draft agreement and is reported to be at the closest point yet to sealing the deal, with this being described as "the final stage" of negotiations.
The potential agreement outlines a three-phase plan that would initiate a ceasefire lasting 42 days, allowing for the gradual release of hostages held by Hamas, and a significant increase in humanitarian aid flowing into Gaza. Reports suggest that during the first phase, approximately 33 hostages will be released, including women, children, and elderly individuals, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners currently detained by Israel. These details have been corroborated by various media sources indicating that about 1,000 Palestinian prisoners may be freed in the process.
The agreement remains subject to further discussions, particularly surrounding the logistics of troops withdrawing from Gaza and ensuring the safety of returning residents. As outlined by mediators, Israeli forces are expected to pull back to the borders, facilitating humanitarian access and allowing Palestinians to return home amidst dire circumstances marked by food shortages and housing destruction. The international community is bracing for a tenfold increase in aid entry, with expectations set for hundreds of trucks providing essential supplies to the besieged population.
Families of the hostages, who have been held since the October 7 attacks, have expressed cautious hope that the current negotiations may lead to their loved ones' release. The Hostages and Missing Families Forum issued a statement reflecting both hope and apprehension, underscoring the urgency of finalizing a deal that prioritizes their safe return.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the need for both sides to establish a governance framework for Gaza should a ceasefire take hold. Currently undermined by internal strife and military disruptions, Gaza's future governance remains a contentious point for both Hamas and the Israeli administration. Discussions about the second and third phases of the deal are set to initiate shortly after the ceasefire commences, placing critical diplomatic pressure on negotiators to find a sustainable resolution to a longstanding conflict.
Despite the palpable desire for peace, tensions remain as opposing factions within Israel raise concerns over concessions made towards Hamas. Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich publicly denounced the framework discussed in Doha as tantamount to surrender, reflecting the deep divisions within Israel's ruling coalition regarding negotiations. However, there is also a growing acknowledgment of the need for compromise in light of the war's staggering human and infrastructural toll.
With the possibility of a ceasefire agreement looming, both sides are under significant pressure to finalize terms before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, heightening the sense of urgency surrounding the negotiations. Regardless of how the final terms are settled, if an agreement can be achieved, it would mark a significant milestone towards ending a 15-month long conflict that has tragically claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions.
For ongoing updates on this developing story, stay tuned to Time, and other major news outlets.