Hamas Agrees to New Ceasefire and Kidnapper Exchange: Potential Diplomatic Breakthrough
According to credible sources, including The Wall Street Journal, Hamas militants controlling the Gaza Strip have officially expressed their willingness to engage in new diplomatic negotiations and have reached an agreement on a temporary ceasefire with Israel. The deal proposes a 60-day halt to hostilities along with a prisoner exchange, marking the initial step toward a comprehensive end to the conflict. The copy of the document obtained indicates that the key mediators are the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, who will oversee adherence to the agreement. Under this arrangement, Hamas is expected to free eight hostages on the first day of the ceasefire, another two on the 50th day, and transfer remains of some of the approximately thirty deceased captives. In response, Israel has consented to the release of a significant number of Palestinian prisoners and a 60-day ceasefire period. Throughout this time, Israeli forces will gradually withdraw from certain parts of Gaza to strengthen the peace process. While the proposed agreement largely repeats previous negotiations, its signing marks a new phase in efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict. The international mediators – the US, Egypt, and Qatar – ensure compliance with the truce and aim to initiate serious discussions for long-term peace solutions, representing a significant step toward reducing regional tensions. Israeli Army spokesman Effie Defrin stated that the operation in Gaza is approaching its final stage, as Hamas is considerably weakened after recent strikes and leadership losses. The background of this conflict traces back to the large-scale attack by Hamas militants supported by Iran on October 7, 2023, which resulted in the death of approximately 1,200 people and the kidnapping of over 250 citizens. Israel responded with a large military operation aimed at destroying Hamas military infrastructure and rescuing hostages, including airstrikes and troop incursions into Gaza. Despite multiple attempts at temporary ceasefires, Israel had refused to negotiate on the main demand of Hamas – a complete cessation of hostilities. On July 2, then-US President Donald Trump announced that Israel agreed to a 60-day final ceasefire, hoping Hamas would accept the deal, warning that conditions could only worsen if not.