- Israel and Hamas near Gaza ceasefire deal
- Hostage release plan outlined in three-phase agreement
- US, Qatar, and Egypt mediate talks to end 14-month war
After months of deadlock, there are indications that Israel and Hamas are nearing a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release agreement. A senior Palestinian official involved in the indirect negotiations revealed that talks have entered a “decisive and final phase.” Israel’s Defence Minister, Yoav Gallant’s predecessor Israel Katz, has also expressed optimism, stating that an agreement is closer than ever.
The resumption of mediation efforts by the US, Qatar, and Egypt in recent weeks has reportedly led to a greater willingness by both sides to conclude a deal. An Israeli delegation is currently in Doha, Qatar, engaging in diplomatic talks. A three-phase plan has been outlined, which would see the release of civilians and women soldiers held hostage in Gaza within the first 45 days, followed by the withdrawal of Israeli forces from city centers and the coastal road.
The plan also includes a mechanism for displaced Gazans to return to the north of the territory. A second stage would involve the release of remaining hostages and the withdrawal of troops, culminating in the third stage, which would bring an end to the war. Of the 96 hostages still held in Gaza, 62 are believed to be alive.
While the plan appears to be based on the deal outlined by US President Joe Biden on May 31, there are still key details to be worked out. A round of talks in mid-October failed to produce an agreement, with Hamas rejecting a short-term ceasefire proposal.
Israel’s Defence Minister, Katz, has emphasized the importance of guaranteeing Israel’s security control over Gaza, stating that “we will not allow any terrorist activity against Israeli communities and Israeli citizens from Gaza.” However, such comments may be seen as problematic by negotiators attempting to bridge the gaps with Hamas.
The Palestinian Islamist armed group Hamas, which governed Gaza, carried out a cross-border attack in southern Israel on October 7, 2023, resulting in the deaths of 1,200 people and the abduction of 253 others. Over 100 hostages have been freed through negotiations or Israeli military rescue operations.
Recent developments, including Israel’s temporary halt of aircraft movement and drone surveillance over Gaza, have raised hopes for a breakthrough in the negotiations. The involvement of Egyptian intelligence officials and the reported handing over of a list of sick and elderly Israeli hostages by Hamas have also contributed to the sense of progress.
As the war in Gaza approaches its 14-month mark, the need for a ceasefire and hostage release agreement has become increasingly urgent. With over 45,000 Palestinians killed and widespread destruction, the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. The recent US presidential election has injected new momentum into diplomatic efforts, with President-elect Donald Trump warning that a ceasefire deal must be reached before he takes office.
