The Gaza Ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is a big development in the ongoing conflict, signalling a temporary halt to hostilities after over 15 months of devastating war; this breakthrough, brokered by the United States and Qatar, aims to facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners in Israeli custody. While the ceasefire offers a glimmer of hope for the region, questions about its long-term viability and impact remain unanswered.
Details of the Ceasefire Agreement
The ceasefire is structured into three stages, each addressing immediate humanitarian needs and broader conflict resolution. Here’s what we know so far:
Stage One: Initial Ceasefire and Hostage Exchange
The first phase, set to last six weeks, involves a “complete and full ceasefire” as confirmed by US President Joe Biden. During this time:
- Hostage Release: Hamas will release an initial group of 33 hostages, including women, children, and the elderly, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails.
- Israeli Withdrawal: Israeli troops are expected to pull out of all populated areas in Gaza, enabling displaced Palestinians to return to their homes.
- Humanitarian Aid Surge: Hundreds of aid trucks will be allowed daily into Gaza, addressing severe food shortages and medical emergencies caused by the prolonged conflict.
Stage Two: Permanent End to Hostilities
The second stage aims to establish a more enduring peace. Key aspects include:
- Expanded Hostage Exchange: The remaining hostages, including men, are expected to be released. In return, Israel will release more Palestinian prisoners, although those involved in severe crimes, such as the October 2023 attacks, may be excluded.
- Troop Withdrawal: Israel will complete its withdrawal from Gaza, ensuring no military presence in the area.
Stage Three: Reconstruction and Reconciliation
The final stage focuses on rebuilding Gaza and addressing the war’s aftermath:
- Gaza Reconstruction: Efforts to rebuild Gaza’s devastated infrastructure will begin, potentially taking years to complete.
- Return of Hostages’ Remains: Any remaining hostages or their remains will be returned to their families, ensuring closure for all parties involved.
Challenges and Unresolved Issues
Despite the ceasefire’s promise, several challenges could hinder its success:
- Fragile Agreement: The history of broken ceasefires between Israel and Hamas raises concerns about the deal’s durability. A single incident could escalate tensions and unravel the truce.
- Unresolved Hostage Cases: Uncertainty persists over the fate of the hostages, with reports suggesting some may no longer be alive. Hamas’s knowledge of their whereabouts remains unclear.
- Conflict Over Prisoner Terms: Israel’s refusal to release certain prisoners, especially those involved in the October 2023 attacks, could strain negotiations in later stages.
- Security Concerns: Israel’s objective to dismantle Hamas’s military capabilities may clash with the ceasefire’s terms, creating potential friction.
What Led to the Gaza Ceasefire?
The conflict intensified on October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched an unprecedented attack on southern Israel, killing approximately 1,200 people and taking over 250 hostages. Israel responded with massive airstrikes and a ground invasion, leading to significant destruction in Gaza. Over 46,700 people, primarily civilians, have died in the violence, with millions displaced. This ceasefire, though temporary, offers a respite from the devastating war and a chance for diplomatic progress.
The Gaza Ceasefire represents a step toward peace, but its success depends on the commitment of both sides to uphold the agreement and address longstanding grievances. While the ceasefire provides an opportunity for humanitarian relief and reconciliation, achieving lasting peace will require careful negotiation and sustained international support.
Read more: Trump Urges Immediate Gaza Ceasefire Deal, Senator Graham Confirms
