After 15 months of conflict, a three-phase agreement aims to end hostilities, release hostages, and begin rebuilding Gaza.
Washington DC [US], January 16: US President Joe Biden announced a breakthrough ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas on Wednesday, marking the end of over 15 months of intense conflict. The agreement, negotiated with significant US involvement, comprises a three-phase plan addressing the cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of forces, hostage release, and the reconstruction of Gaza.
Speaking on the agreement, Biden stated, "At long last, I can announce a ceasefire and hostage deal between Israel and Hamas. This marks the end of 15 months of terror for hostages and suffering for innocent people in Gaza."
Details of the Ceasefire Plan
The deal includes three key phases:
- Phase One (Six Weeks): A complete ceasefire, Israeli military withdrawal from populated areas in Gaza, and the release of hostages by Hamas, including women, elderly individuals, and wounded persons. American hostages are among those to be freed. In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, and displaced Palestinians will be allowed to return to their homes in Gaza.
- Phase Two: This phase will involve negotiations for a permanent end to the conflict. The ceasefire will remain in effect as long as talks continue.
- Phase Three: Final remains of deceased hostages will be returned to their families, and a major reconstruction plan for Gaza will commence.
Biden Highlights the Diplomatic Efforts
Biden emphasized the complexity of the negotiations, describing them as some of the toughest in his career. “This success is a result of Israel's pressure on Hamas, backed by the US, and support from a coalition of 20 nations that opposed attacks by the Houthis,” he noted.
Biden also reflected on the broader regional implications, referencing the vision of an economic corridor connecting India, the Middle East, and Europe, which was endorsed during the G20 Summit in Delhi in 2023.
Hostage Release and Casualty Figures
The agreement includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages captured by Hamas on October 7, 2023. In return, Israel will release hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
The conflict, which escalated following Hamas-led attacks on Israel, has claimed significant casualties. According to Gaza’s Health Ministry, at least 46,707 Palestinians have been killed, with 110,265 wounded. In Israel, 1,139 people lost their lives during the initial Hamas attacks, with over 200 individuals taken captive.
This historic ceasefire marks a significant step toward peace and rebuilding in the region.
