The ceasefire deal between the Palestinian group Hamas and Israel has been reached after more than 460 days of devastating war in Gaza.
Israel has reported over 46,000 Palestinian deaths since the conflict began in October 2023. While Israel has not officially responded to the agreement, a government vote is expected on Thursday, and US President-elect Donald Trump has confirmed the deal.
The deal involves a temporary ceasefire to halt the destruction in Gaza, the release of captives from both sides, and the potential return of displaced Palestinians to their homes, many of which have been destroyed by Israel’s campaign.
Although the official text of the agreement has not been released, reports from Al Jazeera Arabic, Reuters, and Associated Press provide some details.
The first phase
The initial phase, lasting six weeks, includes a limited prisoner exchange, a partial withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and increased aid to the region.
Israel will release 33 captives taken during an attack on southern Israel by Hamas in October 2023, while about 2000 Palestinian prisoners, including those serving life sentences, will be released by Israel. The withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza’s populated areas is also part of this phase.
Civilians will be allowed to return to their homes in Gaza’s besieged north, where aid operations will intensify. Wounded Palestinians will be allowed to leave for treatment, and the Rafah crossing with Egypt will be opened.
What happens after the first phase?
Details of the second and third phases will be negotiated during the initial phase, with Israel requesting no written guarantees for a ceasefire beyond the first stage.
The mediators, Egypt, Qatar, and the United States, have verbally assured Hamas that negotiations will continue after the first phase is completed.
What is planned for the second phase?
If conditions are met for a second phase, Hamas will release remaining captives in return for more Palestinian prisoners being freed and Israel’s complete withdrawal from Gaza.
However, approval from the Israeli cabinet is still pending, with potential opposition from far-right wing members.
The third phase
Details for the third phase are unclear, but it may involve exchanging bodies of captives for a reconstruction plan under international supervision.
The administration of Gaza post-ceasefire remains unsettled, with the United States suggesting a reformed Palestinian Authority to oversee critical services, while Arab states may provide security forces.
Israeli support for such a plan remains uncertain, especially regarding the pathway to Palestinian statehood.
