Israel and Hamas appear to be moving closer to a ceasefire deal after months of deadlock. Top officials from the US, Qatar, and Egypt have resumed their mediation efforts, reported greater willingness from both sides to wrap up a deal. Key concessions include Hamas’s readiness to show more flexibility on Israeli troop withdrawal timing and Israel’s defense minister stating that a deal is closer than ever.
The changing sentiment stems from several factors: heavy damage inflicted by Israel on Hamas, the group’s isolation following Hezbollah’s ceasefire with Israel, and Iran’s setbacks. The US has signaled its desire for a completed deal before President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
According to Egyptian and Hamas officials, the agreement would take place in phases, including a halt in fighting, hostage exchange, and surge in aid to Gaza. The preliminary ceasefire phase would last six to eight weeks, with Hamas releasing 30 hostages (roughly half of those believed alive) and Israel releasing hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
The deal calls for a massive increase in aid to Gaza, which has faced a humanitarian crisis during the war. This includes reopening the Rafah crossing with Egypt and considering a return to the 2005 agreement allowing international observers to oversee its operation. Israeli troop withdrawals would occur in phases, with troops remaining along the Philadelphi corridor until final arrangements are made for an end to the war and full withdrawal.
Source: https://apnews.com/article/israel-hamas-gaza-war-ceasefire-egypt-qatar-264087c7a547031a9433ecbbdcd920d2