Ceasefire Agreement Reached After 15-Month Conflict
Israel and Hamas have reportedly agreed to a ceasefire aimed at halting the devastating 15-month war in Gaza, according to multiple sources, including Al Jazeera. However, uncertainties remain regarding the exact start of the ceasefire as Israeli airstrikes on Gaza continue. Hamas confirmed it has delivered its approval for the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement to mediators.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that some details remain unresolved but expressed optimism that final agreements could be reached soon. “We hope that the details will be finalised tonight,” the statement read.
U.S. Pressure a Driving Factor
Experts suggest that U.S. diplomatic pressure played a crucial role in bringing Israel to the negotiating table. Rami Khouri, a professor at the American University of Beirut, remarked, “The Israelis finally realised that they are not going to get a better deal. American pressure finally seems to have pushed them over the edge.”
President-elect Donald Trump’s anticipated policies may have influenced the process as well. Khouri noted, “Trump may be the one who finally gets Israel to define its borders and stop relying on U.S. military aid every time they get into trouble.”
Netanyahu’s Stance on the Agreement
Prime Minister Netanyahu has highlighted key unresolved issues in the agreement, particularly concerning the deployment of IDF forces in the Philadelphi Corridor, an area along Gaza’s border with Egypt. Netanyahu insisted that Hamas conceded on this demand during the negotiations, paving the way for further progress. However, he emphasized that “several items in the framework have yet to be finalised.”
Key Details of the Agreement
The ceasefire deal includes:
- Phased hostage release: Hamas is set to release 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and elderly individuals, during the first phase of the agreement.
- Prisoner exchange: Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners as part of the exchange.
- Humanitarian aid: The deal will facilitate the entry of much-needed aid into Gaza, addressing critical shortages caused by the prolonged conflict.
Negotiations for the second phase of the agreement, intended to bring a permanent end to the conflict, are expected to begin within two weeks of implementation.
Uncertain Path Toward Peace
Although the ceasefire provides a temporary reprieve, doubts remain about its long-term viability. Analysts suggest that while the agreement is a critical step, it leaves unresolved questions about the broader geopolitical landscape. Khouri warned, “Whether this is going to mean a permanent stop in fighting is yet to be seen.”
Looking Ahead
The ceasefire deal offers a fragile but significant opportunity to halt violence and provide relief to millions of displaced residents in Gaza. However, much depends on the successful resolution of outstanding issues and the willingness of both sides to engage in meaningful dialogue for a sustainable peace.
