In a historic development, Israel and Hamas have reportedly reached a ceasefire agreement to end the 15-month conflict in Gaza. The breakthrough deal, which includes a 42-day truce, the exchange of prisoners, and the facilitation of humanitarian aid, was mediated by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt. The official announcement of the agreement was expected on January 15 in Cairo, but US President-elect Donald Trump had already confirmed the deal through multiple statements, crediting his envoy, Steve Witkoff, for the breakthrough.

The roots of this ceasefire date back to October 7, 2023, when Hamas launched a series of raids out of Gaza that resulted in the deaths of over 1,100 Israelis and the capture of 250 others. In response, the Israeli government declared war on Hamas, and for the past 15 months, the conflict has resulted in the deaths of more than 46,000 people in Gaza, with the area left in ruins.

This new deal is divided into three phases, though some details are still being finalized, according to reports from the region.

In the first phase of the agreement, Hamas and its allies are set to release 33 hostages, including children, female soldiers, and those who are wounded or sick. The release is in exchange for an unspecified number of Palestinians held in Israeli prisons. The deal is seen as a significant humanitarian step, as it marks the first formal exchange of prisoners and hostages between the two parties since the onset of the conflict.

Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani played a crucial role in brokering this phase, emphasizing the importance of restoring the lives of those caught in the brutal exchange of hostilities.

The announcement of the release was hailed as a milestone by world leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who welcomed the ceasefire. He emphasized that a durable peace could only be achieved if both sides honored their........

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