Hamas has reportedly accepted terms for a ceasefire with Israel, signaling a potential end to the ongoing war in Gaza, which began after the group’s attack on October 7, 2023.
On Wednesday, both Israeli and Palestinian officials confirmed that Hamas had verbally approved a deal to release hostages and halt fighting. Media outlets such as Reuters and AFP, citing Palestinian sources, reported that Hamas had not yet submitted a written response to the ceasefire proposal.
Key Details of the Proposed Deal
- Phased Hostage and Prisoner Releases
- Hamas is expected to release 33 hostages in the first phase.
- In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
- Implementation Timeline
- The deal is likely to take effect on Sunday.
- Negotiations for a second phase, aimed at permanently ending hostilities, are set to begin on the 16th day of the deal’s implementation
Significance of the Agreement
If finalized, this would be the first substantial break from conflict for Gaza’s residents in over a year and the second pause since the Israeli bombardment began. The conflict has caused immense suffering, with Israeli strikes destroying Gaza’s infrastructure and displacing its population.
Background
Israel’s military campaign was launched in retaliation for the October 7 attack by Hamas, which killed 1,200 people and saw 250 individuals taken hostage. Late in November 2023, a brief pause allowed for the release of 100 hostages in exchange for 240 Palestinian prisoners.
The war has resulted in the deaths of over 46,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza health officials, the majority being civilians. Despite numerous failed attempts at reaching a truce, this agreement appears to offer a tangible pathway toward peace.
Further details on the ceasefire’s terms and progress are anticipated in the coming days.
