DOHA: Palestinians celebrated on Wednesday as a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas was announced, set to take effect on Sunday. Brokered by the United States and Qatar, the deal also includes a phased hostage and prisoner exchange after 15 months of conflict.
Qatar’s Prime Minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, confirmed the agreement, expressing hope for a permanent peace. “The two parties have reached a deal on a prisoner swap, and mediators announce a ceasefire framework,” he said.
At the White House, President Joe Biden described the negotiations as among the toughest of his career. “I’m deeply satisfied this day has finally come,” he stated. Israeli President Isaac Herzog called the agreement the “right move,” though Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office noted unresolved issues, hoping for finalization soon.
The first phase will see Hamas release 33 captives, including women, children, and elderly individuals, in exchange for prisoners held in Israeli jails. Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. will monitor the ceasefire’s implementation from Cairo.
Pressure to end the fighting intensified as mediators sought to secure an agreement. Khalil al-Hayya, acting Gaza chief for Hamas, declared that Israel had failed to achieve its goals in Gaza. Meanwhile, preparations are underway to expedite humanitarian aid via the Rafah crossing.
Global reactions were swift, with the EU, Turkey, and Spain welcoming the deal. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi emphasized the urgency of delivering aid to Gaza, as the enclave grapples with devastation and displacement affecting its 2.3 million residents.
The ceasefire may ease regional tensions but leaves open critical questions about Gaza’s post-war governance and reconstruction. Israel opposes any Hamas involvement and is hesitant about Palestinian Authority control, highlighting significant hurdles to achieving lasting peace.
