- Mediators from Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt push for final Gaza ceasefire deal.
- Hostage exchanges and troop withdrawals are key components of the proposed deal.
- Small details remain to be resolved before the agreement can be finalized.
Negotiators from Israel and Hamas are in the final stages of reaching a ceasefire agreement after over a year of conflict. Sources suggest a draft proposal has been largely agreed upon, but a few critical details, such as troop withdrawal maps, are still under discussion.
U.S. and Qatari officials are optimistic about a resolution, though Israeli officials remain cautious, with minor disagreements complicating the process.
Final Push for Israel-Hamas Ceasefire in Gaza
The first phase of the ceasefire plan would involve a 42-day cessation of hostilities, during which Israeli hostages would be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Israel is reportedly prepared to free a number of Palestinian prisoners as part of the deal. This exchange is expected to gradually pave the way for a fuller resolution, including the return of displaced residents and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
The proposed agreement includes a phased approach, with the first phase focused on a six-week ceasefire, the release of Israeli hostages, and the exchange of Palestinian prisoners. Israel has expressed expectations of freeing 33 hostages in the initial phase, with further phases aimed at releasing additional hostages and ensuring a long-term cessation of hostilities. These initial exchanges could offer the first glimpse of peace after over 15 months of war.
Despite reports of progress, there are concerns over the minor details that could derail the deal. A senior Hamas official emphasized that Israel has yet to provide maps showing its planned troop withdrawal from Gaza, while Israeli sources have dismissed this claim. The ceasefire’s success hinges on both sides making concessions, with mediators urging them to finalize the terms.
Meanwhile, Israel’s military activities in Gaza and other regions, such as Lebanon and Syria, continue, as tensions with Iran and Hezbollah persist. The broader geopolitical dynamics remain volatile, with Israeli airstrikes in the region adding to the uncertainty surrounding the ceasefire negotiations.
The ceasefire deal is almost within reach, but both Israel and Hamas must resolve the remaining issues before the agreement can be finalized. The outcome will significantly impact the future of Gaza.
“The most minor detail could yet undermine the process” – Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majed al-Ansari on the fragile nature of the ceasefire negotiations.
