In a significant development, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire aimed at ending the 15-month-long conflict in Gaza. The agreement, brokered by Egyptian and Qatari mediators with support from the United States, is set to commence on Sunday, January 19, 2025.
Truce Terms and Conditions
The ceasefire outlines a six-week initial phase with the following key components:
- Hostage and Prisoner Exchange: Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages, including women, children, and men over 50, in exchange for approximately 1,900 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
- Military Withdrawal: Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from the Gaza Strip, creating a buffer zone to facilitate the return of displaced Palestinians to their homes.
- Humanitarian Aid: The truce will allow for a substantial increase in humanitarian assistance to Gaza, addressing severe shortages of food, water, and medical supplies.
Guarantors of the Deal
The ceasefire agreement has been guaranteed by:
- Egypt and Qatar: Acting as primary mediators, both nations facilitated negotiations and will monitor compliance.
- United States: Provided diplomatic support and applied pressure to ensure both parties adhered to the terms.
Violation Risks
Despite the agreement, several risks could jeopardize the truce:
- Delayed Compliance: Hamas’s initial delay in providing the list of hostages raised concerns about their commitment to the timeline.
- Militant Factions: Other groups within Gaza may not recognize the ceasefire, potentially leading to isolated attacks.
- Political Opposition: Hardline elements within both Israeli and Palestinian communities may oppose the terms, undermining the agreement’s stability.
Global Reactions
The international community has responded cautiously to the ceasefire:
- United Nations: Welcomed the truce and urged both parties to adhere strictly to the terms to prevent further humanitarian crises.
- European Union: Expressed support for the ceasefire and emphasized the need for a sustainable peace process.
- Regional Actors: Countries like Jordan and Turkey have called for continued dialogue to address underlying issues and prevent future escalations.
While the ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for peace in the region, its success hinges on the commitment of both parties to uphold their obligations and the vigilant oversight of international guarantors.