Negotiators are trying to finalize a ceasefire deal in Gaza, with officials from Qatar, Egypt, and the US, as well as Israel and Hamas, working towards an agreement. The planned phased ceasefire could halt fighting that has decimated Gaza, killing tens of thousands of Palestinians.
The talks come after 15 months of on-off negotiations between Israel and Hamas, which have previously said they were close to a ceasefire only to hit last-minute obstacles. If successful, the deal would require Israel to recover around 100 remaining hostages and bodies from among those captured in October 2023 attacks that precipitated the war.
However, despite efforts to reach an agreement, Israeli military strikes killed at least 13 Palestinians across Gaza over the past 24 hours. The violence has sparked fears of all-out war between Israel and Iran, fueling conflict in neighboring countries.
Under the plan, Israel would recover around 100 remaining hostages and bodies, while Hamas would release them along with other steps. However, even if both sides agree to the deal, further negotiations are needed before a final ceasefire can be implemented.
The Palestinian people have been waiting for relief from Israeli airstrikes, which have eased a humanitarian crisis. “We just want to know that we are finally living in peace,” said Amal Saleh, 54, a Gazan displaced by the war.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/world/middle-east/gaza-ceasefire-appears-close-us-egyptian-leaders-put-focus-coming-hours-2025-01-14