Ceasefire Agreement in Gaza Nearing Finalization, Successful Talks in Doha, 42-Day Ceasefire, Hamas Promises Prisoner Release

Ceasefire Agreement in Gaza Nearing Finalization, Successful Talks in Doha, 42-Day Ceasefire, Hamas Promises Prisoner Release

Significant progress has been made in the discussions on the Gaza ceasefire, according to mediators. A draft agreement was formulated during midnight talks in Doha and has been sent to both Israel and Hamas.

On January 14, 2025, U.S. President Joe Biden stated, “The ceasefire and prisoner release agreement is nearing its final stages. We are working hard to ensure its effective implementation.”

In the first phase of this agreement, Hamas will release 33 prisoners, under a preliminary ceasefire lasting 42 days. According to Israeli officials, most of those released are expected to be alive, though there may be deceased bodies as well.

Hope for Stability in the Middle East

Biden added, “If the agreement is implemented, it will end the war, ensure Israel’s security, and allow for significant humanitarian aid to flow to the Palestinian people.”

President-elect Donald Trump also expressed optimism about the agreement. In an interview, he stated, “From what I understand, the matter is in its final stages and is on its way to completion.”

Final Talks in Doha

The final round of discussions in Doha is scheduled for Tuesday. On the same day, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is expected to meet with the families of the prisoners.

Qadura Fares, the head of the Palestinian Prisoner Commission, is heading to Doha to help finalize the list of released prisoners.

Key Terms of the Agreement

• Israeli forces will be stationed in the Philadelphi Corridor for 42 days in the first phase.
• There is a dispute over the buffer zone on the Gaza border. Hamas demands 300-500 meters, while Israel insists on 2,000 meters.
• The second phase of talks will begin on the 16th day after the agreement's implementation.

Promise of Humanitarian Aid

The agreement is expected to open the way for extensive humanitarian aid to Gaza, providing some relief to the long-suffering Palestinian population, according to international observers.