Breakthrough in Gaza: Israel and Hamas Reach Ceasefire Agreement, According to Reports

An agreement for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages has been established between Israel and Hamas, following discussions held with Qatar’s prime minister, a source informed the BBC.

The office of the Israeli prime minister indicated that there were “multiple unresolved issues” but expressed hope that a consensus could be reached on Wednesday night. A Hamas representative previously mentioned that it had concurred with the framework proposed by mediators in Doha.

US President-elect Donald Trump also posted on social media: “We have an agreement for the hostages in the Middle East.”

While the three-phase arrangement has not been disclosed, it is reported that 33 of the hostages held by Hamas will be swapped for Palestinian prisoners detained in Israeli prisons during the first six weeks of the ceasefire.

Discussions for the second phase—aiming to see the remaining hostages released, a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, and the establishment of “sustainable tranquility”—are expected to commence after two weeks.

The third and final phase will entail the reconstruction of Gaza—a process that could take years—and the recovery of any remaining hostages’ remains.

Once Qatar or the US announces the agreement, it will still face a few obstacles before hostilities cease and the initial hostages are released.

It must first be presented to a vote in the Israeli cabinet, possibly by Thursday. Although it is anticipated to pass, the far-right national security minister has stated he will oppose it.

Subsequently, the names of all Palestinian prisoners slated for release will be disclosed by the Israeli government, and the families of any victims will have 48 hours to file an appeal.

In response to Hamas’s unprecedented assault on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 fatalities and 251 abductions, the Israeli military initiated a campaign to dismantle Hamas.

Since then, more than 46,700 individuals have reportedly died in Gaza, according to the Hamas-controlled health ministry in the region. A significant portion of the 2.3 million inhabitants has been displaced, widespread destruction has occurred, and there are critical deficits in food, fuel, medicine, and shelter due to challenges in delivering aid to those in need.

Israel claims that 94 hostages remain in Hamas’s custody, 34 of whom are believed to be deceased. Additionally, four Israelis were kidnapped before the conflict, two of whom are confirmed dead.