Tel Aviv, Oct 9 (AP) Israel and Hamas have come to an agreement to halt hostilities in Gaza, with the intent of facilitating the release of the remaining hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The framework of this agreement incorporates aspects of a peace proposal by the Trump administration, which has been cautiously received by Palestinians as a potential step towards ending the brutal two-year conflict.
President Donald Trump announced on social media late Wednesday that "all of the hostages will be released very soon," and that Israel will retract its forces to a mutually agreed boundary. He described these actions as foundational steps towards a "strong, durable, and everlasting peace." Those affected by the conflict, like Alaa Abd Rabbo from northern Gaza, expressed relief at the news, calling it “a godsend.” Many, weary and displaced by the fighting, are eager for a return to normalcy.
In Tel Aviv, the announcement was met with jubilation as families of the hostages celebrated with champagne and tears of joy. According to sources familiar with the negotiation process, Hamas plans to release all 20 surviving hostages within days, while Israel is set to commence a withdrawal from most of Gaza. Though uncertainties remain regarding key issues like Hamas’ potential disarmament and the governance of Gaza post-conflict, this agreement marks the closest step to resolution in recent months.
The war originated with a deadly Hamas assault on Israel on October 7, 2023, and has since claimed the lives of tens of thousands of Palestinians, devastated Gaza, and resonated in regional skirmishes throughout the Middle East. Worldwide protests and allegations regarding Israel's actions have dominated the discourse, though the state firmly denies any accusations of genocide.
Negotiations, held in Egypt, reached this pivotal breakthrough after a three-day deliberation period. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed optimism on social media following Trump’s announcement and plans to convene the government on Thursday to ratify the deal. Hamas has called on the mediators, including Trump, to ensure Israel adheres to its troop withdrawal, facilitates aid, and executes the prisoner exchange without delay.
Ahmed al-Farra, a pediatric specialist at the Nasser Hospital in Khan Yunis, remains cautiously optimistic about the deal's implementation, although his prior experiences have made him wary.
The Trump peace proposal stipulates an immediate ceasefire and the release of the captives held from the 2023 attack, alongside a significant prisoner exchange. Trump's plan envisions an enduring Israeli military presence in Gaza near its border, complemented by an international force primarily composed of troops from Arab and Muslim nations to oversee security in Gaza. Additionally, the US is poised to head a substantial, globally-backed reconstruction initiative in Gaza.
While the role of the Palestinian Authority—a concept Netanyahu opposes—is a part of the plan, it is contingent upon comprehensive reforms anticipated to span several years. The future of a Palestinian state remains nebulous and contentious under the current framework, much to the frustration of many.
Nonetheless, the notion of cessation brings hope to some Palestinians and Israelis. Displaced individuals like Ahmed Sheheiber from northern Gaza are celebrating the potential implications, eagerly anticipating the chance to return home. In the central square of Tel Aviv, hostage families expressed joy and relief, and advocates for the hostages' release, such as Einav Zangauker, conveyed their yearning for reunion with their loved ones.
Meanwhile, Trump's Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, and Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner have been integral to the discussions in Egypt. Trump remains optimistic, even contemplating a visit to the region. This attempt marks the third ceasefire in the ongoing conflict, following earlier efforts in November 2023 and January-February that provided only temporary respite.
The humanitarian toll of the warfare has been staggering, with accusations of genocide levied against Israel amidst the extensive casualties reported by Gaza’s Health Ministry. Palestinians, sheltering in makeshift camps along the Gaza coastline, are hopeful for peace and the promise of rebuilding a ravaged land. Ayman Saber from Khan Younis expressed determination to rebuild his home and city, envisioning a revived Gaza.
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