GAZA CITY/TEL AVIV, Israel — Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement to pause the conflict in Gaza, initiating the phased release of hostages and Palestinian prisoners, sources close to the negotiations have confirmed.
The deal, expected to be implemented on Sunday, marks the first step toward easing hostilities since the Israeli bombardment began over a year ago.
In the initial phase, Hamas and allied militant groups will release 33 hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attacks in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners from Israeli jails.
Humanitarian Aid and Ceasefire Details
As part of the agreement, announced on Wednesday, January 15, 2025, fighting in Gaza will halt temporarily, providing a much-needed reprieve for civilians.
The deal also includes plans for humanitarian aid to flow into Gaza, addressing dire conditions in the enclave.
Civilians displaced from northern Gaza are expected to be allowed to return to their homes.
Hamas has confirmed its approval of the deal, with senior official Basem Naim telling CNN, “The movement has dealt with this matter with full responsibility and positivity, stemming from its duty towards our steadfast and resilient people in the Gaza Strip.”
A separate Hamas statement emphasised consultations with allied militant groups and reiterated their aim to stop what they described as “Zionist aggression” and the “massacres and genocide” against Palestinians.
Next Steps
While the immediate focus is on implementing the first phase of the deal, negotiations for a second phase—aimed at ending the war—are set to begin 16 days after the agreement takes effect.
The agreement represents a rare moment of diplomatic progress in a conflict that has devastated Gaza and strained Israel’s political and social fabric.
However, the road to a broader resolution remains fraught with challenges.
The deal’s success hinges on its careful implementation and the willingness of both sides to engage in further negotiations.
Observers are cautiously optimistic that this agreement could pave the way for a longer-term ceasefire and renewed dialogue in the region.
Further developments are expected in the coming days as details of the implementation unfold.
