Ceasefire Deal between Israel and Hamas Nearing Completion amid Hostage Talks

A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas, which includes the release of hostages, is in its final stages of negotiation, according to a Palestinian official familiar with the discussions. The official revealed that the agreement is expected to come to fruition soon, with some details still being finalized.

US President Joe Biden confirmed that a deal was “on the brink” and that his administration was working diligently to bring it to completion. Israeli officials also stated that the negotiations were in “advanced stages,” with a potential deal expected in the “hours, days, or more.”

Biden has been actively involved in the talks, speaking with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar, who is mediating the negotiations. On Monday, indirect talks were reportedly held between Hamas and Israeli officials in the same building, marking a significant step forward in the process.

The proposed agreement includes several key provisions. Initially, Hamas is expected to release three hostages on the first day of the ceasefire, after which Israel will begin withdrawing troops from populated areas. Seven days later, Hamas will free four more hostages, and Israel will allow displaced people in southern Gaza to return to the north via foot along a coastal road. Cars, trucks, and animal-drawn carts will be allowed to cross through a monitored passage.

The agreement also includes provisions for Israeli forces to remain in certain areas, such as the Philadelphi corridor, and maintain a buffer zone along the eastern and northern borders during the first 42-day phase. In return, Israel has agreed to release 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including 190 individuals serving lengthy sentences. Hamas is also expected to release 34 hostages as part of the exchange.

The second and third phases of the deal would begin on the 16th day of the ceasefire, with negotiations for these phases to commence soon after. While the talks are progressing, there is significant internal opposition in Israel. Ten right-wing members of Netanyahu’s coalition, including some from his own Likud party, have voiced their objections to the potential ceasefire, further complicating the process.

The potential deal comes amid ongoing violence, with Israeli airstrikes on Gaza City on Monday killing over 50 people, according to Gaza’s civil defense agency. The Israeli military has said it is investigating the reports. The conflict, which began with Hamas’s attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, has led to a devastating loss of life. According to Gaza’s Hamas-run health ministry, more than 46,500 people have been killed in the fighting. On the Israeli side, 94 hostages remain in Gaza, with 34 presumed dead.