After 15 months of intense warfare, the Israel-Hamas ceasefire is offering hope for an end to the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip. The agreement has garnered considerable international attention and is seen as a significant diplomatic achievement. It promises to facilitate the release of hostages from Gaza and Palestinian prisoners held in Israeli jails, marking a critical moment in this long-standing conflict. This ceasefire is considered the first substantial break in the violence since the brief truce that ended on December 1, 2023.

Gradual Path to Peace

Set to take effect on Sunday, the ceasefire follows several weeks of negotiations, primarily led by Qatar, which played a crucial role in mediating the deal. The ceasefire will be implemented in phases. Israeli forces are expected to gradually withdraw from the Gaza border, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes. The agreement also facilitates the exchange of hostages and prisoners, offering a much-needed humanitarian breakthrough. Humanitarian aid is set to enter Gaza, and efforts to rebuild hospitals and other healthcare infrastructure will begin.

As part of the deal, Hamas will release 33 Israeli hostages in exchange for 100 Palestinian prisoners serving life sentences. Israel, in return, will free 1,000 Palestinian prisoners who were not involved in the October 7 attacks. Some of these prisoners will be freed abroad, while others will return to Gaza.

International Reactions and Diplomatic Engagement

U.S. President Joe Biden expressed satisfaction with the deal, crediting months of intensive diplomacy involving the United States,........

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