Hamas Accepts Draft Agreement for Gaza Ceasefire

Hamas has agreed to a draft ceasefire agreement in the ongoing Gaza conflict, The final approval of the agreement is pending from the Israeli Cabinet. A recent Lancet study has reported over 64,000 deaths during the conflict.

Table of Contents

Context

Hamas has agreed to a draft ceasefire agreement in the ongoing Gaza conflict. The final approval of the agreement is pending from the Israeli Cabinet. A recent Lancet study has reported over 64,000 deaths during the conflict.

About the Draft Agreement

Phase 1: Hostage Release and Initial Military Withdrawal

Hostage Release:
- 33 Israeli hostages will be released.
- In exchange, up to 1,000 Palestinian prisoners will be freed.
Military Withdrawal:
- A partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza will take place over 60 days.

Phase 2: Remaining Hostages and Complete Withdrawal

Hostages:
- The remaining 61 hostages, including military-age men and soldiers, will be released.
Prisoner Exchange:
- Additional Palestinian prisoners will be released, except those involved in deadly attacks or the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack.
Complete Withdrawal:
- Israeli forces will fully withdraw from Gaza.

Phase 3: Reconstruction and Humanitarian Assistance

Large-scale reconstruction of Gaza will commence.

Challenges to Ceasefire Implementation

Hamas’ Conditions:
- Hamas demands a complete Israeli military withdrawal and an end to the war before releasing the remaining hostages.
Political Opposition in Israel:
- Far-right Israeli Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir has threatened to resign, labeling the deal as a capitulation to Hamas.

The ceasefire agreement, while potentially marking a significant step towards peace, faces multiple hurdles, including political opposition and strict conditions from both sides.

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