Israel and Hamas have agreed to a multi-phase ceasefire deal that includes the release of hostages.
According to an announcement from the White House,
The deal is structured in 3 phases. Phase one will last 6 weeks. It includes a full and complete ceasefire, withdrawal of Israeli forces from all the populated areas of Gaza. And, and the release of a number of hostages held by Hamas, including women and elderly and the wounded. And I’m proud to say Americans will be part of that hostage release in phase one as well….
Then when phase 2 begins, there will be an exchange for release of the remaining living hostages, including male soldiers, and all remaining Israeli forces will be withdrawn from Gaza, and the temporary ceasefire will become permanent. And finally, phase 3. Any final remains of hostages who have been killed will be returned to their families. And a major reconstruction plan for Gaza will begin.
During the first phase, Hamas has agreed to release 33 Israeli hostages, prioritizing women, children, and men over the age of 50. According to Fox News, “The operation’s execution relies on extensive coordination among the IDF, Shin Bet, Israeli Police, the Ministry of Health, the International Red Cross, and Egyptian authorities.”
During the second phase of the deal, Hamas will release younger men and Israeli soldiers. Israel will return approximately 1,000 Palestinian prisoners during this phase as well, and start withdrawing from Gaza, allowing residents to return. Hamas will return deceased hostages during Phase 3.
Taking Credit
President Biden and President-elect Trump are both taking credit for the ceasefire.
According to Biden,
This is the ceasefire agreement I introduced last spring. Today Hamas and Israel have agreed to that ceasefire agreement. And the whole ending the war, you know, those of you who have followed the negotiations can attest, the road to this deal has not been easy. I’ve worked in foreign policy for decades. This is one of the toughest negotiations I’ve ever experienced.
Trump posted on TRUTH Social:
As Fox News Digital noted, “Sources told Fox News Digital that a weekend meeting between Netanyahu and Trump’s incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, led to the breakthrough. Witkoff’s assurances reportedly convinced Netanyahu to accept the deal, despite threats from a right-wing party to withdraw from the coalition if it passed.”
Humanitarian aid will also be brought into Gaza during this time, and Israel is preparing for various contingencies to maintain stability and ensure the operation’s success.
