Key Developments in the Gaza Strip Truce Agreement
International mediators, including Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, have been working tirelessly to secure a ceasefire between Israel and the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas. After 15 months of war, a potential agreement is on the horizon.
Exchange of Hostages and Prisoners
According to sources close to the negotiations, the first phase of the truce agreement involves the exchange of 33 Israeli hostages for 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. This exchange is expected to begin with the liberation of women and children. A second phase of negotiations will reportedly focus on freeing the remaining Israeli captives, including male soldiers, men of military age, and the bodies of murdered hostages.
Previous Ceasefire and Ongoing Conflict
The only previous ceasefire between Israel and Hamas was reached in late November 2023, resulting in the exchange of 105 hostages for 240 Palestinian prisoners. The ongoing conflict began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas fighters launched an attack on Israeli territory, killing 1,210 people and kidnapping 251. Currently, 94 people are still being held in Gaza, with 34 declared dead by the Israeli army.
Proposed Deal and Buffer Zone
Under the proposed agreement, Israel would be allowed to maintain a buffer zone inside Gaza during the implementation of the first phase. The Israeli army would not withdraw from Gaza until all hostages are returned, but would permit the movement of southern Gaza inhabitants to the north of the Strip.
International Support and Cautious Optimism
Qatari Foreign Ministry spokesman Majel al Ansari expressed cautious optimism, stating that the negotiations are in their “final stage” and hoping for a quick agreement. US President Joe Biden also stated that an agreement is “close” to being reached. While progress is being made, all parties involved are urging caution until a definitive truce agreement is confirmed.