🎉 Breaking news! After 15 months of intense conflict, Israel and Hamas have finally reached a groundbreaking deal to end the war in Gaza and free hostages. 🙌
Negotiators from Qatar, Egypt, and the U.S. have brokered a phased agreement that promises a brighter future for the region. The deal, set to take effect on January 19, outlines a six-week initial ceasefire phase, gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from the Gaza Strip, and the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
In Phase One, 33 Israeli hostages, including all women, children, and men over 50, will be released. Israel will reciprocate by releasing Palestinian prisoners. Negotiations for the second phase will kick off by the 16th day of Phase One, aiming to free all remaining hostages, establish a permanent ceasefire, and ensure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Phase Three focuses on returning all remaining bodies and kickstarting Gaza's reconstruction, supervised by Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations. 🏗️
This agreement is a significant step towards peace, coming just before the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on January 20. Outgoing President Joe Biden expressed satisfaction, noting it was the deal he first proposed back in May.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the breakthrough, urging all parties to seize this opportunity to build a brighter future for the region. He emphasized the importance of moving towards a two-state solution, allowing Palestinians to run their own affairs as part of an independent country.
The war has left much of Gaza in ruins, displacing most of its 2.3 million residents and claiming tens of thousands of lives. 💔 The hope is that this deal will not only halt the fighting but also defuse tensions across the Middle East, preventing further conflicts in neighboring regions.
However, challenges remain. The question of who will govern Gaza after the war is still up in the air. Israel opposes any involvement by Hamas or the Palestinian Authority, making future negotiations crucial.
With the release of the hostages, there's a chance for healing. It's a moment that could ease public anger in Israel and pave the way for lasting peace. ✌️
Let's keep our fingers crossed 🤞 that this deal marks the beginning of a new era of peace and prosperity for the people of Gaza and the entire Middle East.
Reference(s):
Israel and Hamas reach deal to end Gaza war and free hostages
cgtn.com
