By Twink Jones Gadama
In a significant development, Israel and Hamas have finalized a deal to pause the war and release hostages, marking a crucial step towards ending the devastating conflict in Gaza.
The agreement, brokered by the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, is expected to be signed in the coming hours, with Israel’s security cabinet set to meet on Thursday to formally approve the deal.
According to the terms of the agreement, the ceasefire will begin on Sunday, with the release of 33 Israeli hostages held by Hamas. The first phase of the deal will last six weeks, during which time Israel and Hamas will discuss the details of a second phase, aimed at achieving a final end to the war in Gaza.
The deal has been welcomed by Israeli officials, who have expressed gratitude for the role played by the Biden administration in securing the agreement.
However, some have credited President-elect Donald Trump’s ultimatum to Hamas, warning of “all hell to pay” if the hostages are not released, as a key factor in securing the deal.
The agreement marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to end the conflict, which has resulted in the deaths of over 46,000 Palestinians and the displacement of an estimated 90% of Gaza’s population. The deal also includes provisions for a major influx of humanitarian aid into Gaza, which has been ravaged by 15 months of war.
While the agreement is a significant step forward, many questions remain about the long-term implications of the deal.
Hamas has demanded assurances of a permanent end to the war and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, while Israel has insisted that it will not halt the war until Hamas’ military and governing capabilities are destroyed.
Despite these challenges, the agreement offers a glimmer of hope for a resolution to the conflict. As one Palestinian father, Abed Radwan, exclaimed, “The best day in my life and the life of the Gaza people… Thank God. Thank God”.
The international community has welcomed the agreement, with U.S. President Joe Biden praising the deal as a significant step towards peace.
The agreement is also seen as a major achievement for President-elect Trump, who has made ending the conflict a key priority.
As the deal is implemented, attention will turn to the next phase of negotiations, aimed at achieving a final end to the war in Gaza.
While challenges remain, the agreement offers a significant breakthrough in efforts to end the conflict and bring peace to the region.
