Israel and Hamas have reached a three-phase ceasefire agreement set to begin on January 19, 2025, following over a year of intense conflict. The plan, brokered by Qatar, the U.S., and Egypt, aims to halt hostilities, release hostages, and initiate Gaza's reconstruction.
Phase One (Jan 19, 2025): A six-week ceasefire will see the withdrawal of Israeli forces from populated areas in Gaza, the release of some Israeli hostages, including women, elderly, and children, and the beginning of humanitarian aid delivery. In exchange, Israel will release Palestinian prisoners.
Phase Two: This phase will see the return of remaining Israeli hostages, the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and a move toward a permanent ceasefire.
Phase Three: The final stage includes the return of deceased hostages’ remains and a major reconstruction effort for Gaza, which has been heavily damaged in the conflict.
Although Israel has yet to finalize the details for phases two and three, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has expressed concerns about Hamas’s demands regarding prisoner releases. Meanwhile, Israeli airstrikes on Gaza have continued following the ceasefire announcement, intensifying the challenges on the ground for Gaza's residents.
Humanitarian aid is expected to flood into Gaza, with significant efforts underway to assist those suffering in the region.
