After 15 intense months of conflict, Israel and Hamas have finally agreed to a ceasefire 🎉. The devastating humanitarian crisis resulted in the loss of over 46,000 Palestinian lives and more than 1,200 Israelis, according to health authorities in Gaza and Israel.
From Conflict to Ceasefire: A Timeline
October 7, 2023: In a dramatic turn of events, Hamas launches a large-scale attack on Israel, resulting in around 1,200 casualties and taking approximately 250 hostages 😨.
October 8, 2023: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declares a \"state of war\" and vows to dismantle Hamas, initiating widespread airstrikes on Gaza.
October 27, 2023: Israel escalates the conflict by launching a large-scale ground invasion into Gaza.
November 24, 2023: A temporary four-day ceasefire, brokered by Qatar and other mediators, takes effect 🙏, briefly pausing the hostilities. The ceasefire is extended twice, but Israeli airstrikes resume on December 2.
December 11, 2023: Israel signals willingness to negotiate a humanitarian ceasefire in exchange for the release of hostages, while Hamas demands a halt to military operations before further discussions.
March 31, 2024: Ceasefire talks resume in Cairo, with Israeli and Hamas representatives working through mediators.
August 15-16, 2024: A fresh round of negotiations is held in Doha 🌍, involving Israel, Qatar, the United States, and Egypt. While mediators describe the talks as \"constructive,\" Hamas criticizes the proposals as favoring Israel.
November 9, 2024: Qatar suspends mediation efforts 😞, citing a lack of serious intent from both sides but expresses hope for future talks.
December 7, 2024: Momentum returns 💪 as Qatar announces the resumption of mediation efforts.
January 15, 2025: Success at last! 🎉 Israel and Hamas agree to a ceasefire-for-hostages deal that will start on Sunday. Hamas will release 33 hostages over six weeks in exchange for the release of Palestinian detainees.
As Palestinians celebrate the announcement in the Gaza Strip, the world watches with hope for lasting peace ✌️.
Reference(s):
Key events in Israeli-Palestinian conflict and ceasefire negotiation
cgtn.com
