Israel and Hamas have agreed to the first phase of a peace plan, brokered with the assistance of U.S. special envoy Steve witkoff and representatives from Qatar, Egypt, and other nations, perhaps paving the way for a gradual end to the two-year conflict in Gaza. The agreement, announced today, focuses initially on the release of hostages held by hamas in exchange for a ceasefire and increased humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
The deal marks a notable,though preliminary,step toward de-escalation after months of intense fighting triggered by the October 7,2023,Hamas attack on Israel,which resulted in the deaths of over 1,200 Israelis and the abduction of 251 people.While previous attempts to secure a lasting ceasefire have failed, this agreement offers a fragile hope for alleviating the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza, where over 67,100 Palestinians have been reported killed according to Hamas-controlled health authorities.
Indirect negotiations commenced on Monday in Sharm El-Sheikh, bringing together key figures including Israel’s Minister Ron Dermer and Chalil al-Haja, Hamas’ highest representative abroad. The initial phase of the plan centers on the release of a specified number of hostages – women, children, and those with medical needs – in return for a temporary pause in military operations and the entry of essential supplies into Gaza.
The conflict began when Hamas fighters and allied Islamists launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Israel responded with extensive military action in the Gaza Strip. The reported death toll in gaza,provided by the Hamas-controlled Ministry of Health,remains unverified by self-reliant sources.
AFP · DPA
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