Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas: Key Details and Implications

After 15 months of intense conflict that has claimed tens of thousands of Palestinian lives in Gaza and exacerbated tensions across the Middle East, a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has come into effect.

Key Aspects of the Agreement

The deal, brokered by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, includes multiple phases aimed at de-escalation, humanitarian relief, and the exchange of hostages and prisoners.

1. Temporary Pause in Fighting

The ceasefire will halt hostilities to facilitate the release of hostages and prisoners while allowing humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.

2. Hostage and Prisoner Exchange

The exchange is structured in multiple phases:

Hostage Releases: Women (including female soldiers), children, and men over 50 years old. At least three hostages per week: Three on day one, four on day seven, and the remaining 26 over the following five weeks. Among the roughly 250 people abducted on October 7, 2023, some have died in captivity, while others have been released or rescued. Israel believes most hostages are alive.

Prisoner Releases: In return, 737 Palestinian prisoners will be released in the first phase. 1,167 additional Palestinians detained in Gaza since the start of the war will also be freed. 30 Palestinian prisoners for each female hostage released on Sunday.

3. Israeli Military Withdrawal

Gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza.

Troops will pull back into a buffer zone of approximately 0.6 miles wide along Gaza's borders with Israel.

This will allow many displaced Palestinians to return home, including in Gaza City and the devastated northern Gaza region.

4. Surge in Humanitarian Aid

The ceasefire agreement includes provisions for a major increase in humanitarian assistance.

Aid organizations will be allowed to operate with greater access to Gaza’s most affected areas.

Phase One: Immediate Steps

Approximately 94 hostages remain in Hamas custody in Gaza (Hostages and Missing Families Forum).

The first phase spans six weeks, with 33 hostages scheduled for release in that time.

The gradual implementation aims to build confidence for further peace efforts.

What’s Next?

While this ceasefire marks a critical step toward de-escalation, its long-term success depends on continued diplomatic efforts and compliance from all parties involved. The international community will be closely monitoring developments to ensure that commitments are upheld.

For more updates on the ceasefire agreement and its implications, follow [relevant sources like the UN, Reuters, and Al Jazeera].