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Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Underway Amid Final Negotiations

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Gaza Ceasefire and Hostage Deal Underway Amid Final Negotiations

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A ceasefire agreement has been reached between Israel and Hamas, aiming to end over a year of violence in Gaza. The deal includes a phased withdrawal of Israeli forces, a prisoner exchange, and the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Mediated by Qatar and Egypt with U.S. backing, the truce is set to begin on January 19, 2025.

While hailed as a significant step, final details remain under negotiation. Hamas will release Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Humanitarian aid will address urgent needs in Gaza, devastated by the conflict. International leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, have praised the agreement but emphasized the challenges in securing it. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated the details are still being finalized.

Global reactions highlight cautious optimism. Leaders like Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese stress the need for Hamas’s exclusion from future governance, while others, such as Ireland’s President Michael Higgins, call for robust humanitarian efforts. As the ceasefire unfolds, hopes are pinned on rebuilding Gaza and fostering long-term stability.