Israel has confirmed the signing of the first phase of a ceasefire agreement with Hamas, aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The deal, which was finalized in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, follows three days of intense negotiations.
The Israeli government announced that the ceasefire will take effect within 24 hours after the cabinet ratifies the agreement. This ratification is scheduled for later today.
According to the agreement, the release of Israeli captives in Gaza is expected within 72 hours, in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Israeli officials stated that troops would withdraw to an agreed-upon line as part of the deal.
However, the Israeli spokesperson clarified that Palestinian leader Marwan Barghouti will not be included in the exchange, a decision likely to provoke discontent among Palestinians. Despite the troop withdrawal, Israel is expected to maintain control over significant portions of Gaza.
Analysts have noted that while the initial phase of the ceasefire is progressing, serious disagreements remain between Israel and Hamas. Key issues include the timeline and extent of Israel’s withdrawal and the future governance of Gaza.
A second phase of negotiations is anticipated, which may involve a complete Israeli withdrawal and the disarmament of Hamas. This phase is still under discussion.
The announcement of the ceasefire has been met with relief in Gaza, where many families are hopeful for a reprieve from the violence that has claimed over 67,000 lives in the past two years. However, experts caution that this agreement does not guarantee lasting peace and raises questions about future humanitarian conditions in the region.
