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Biden Announces Israel-Hamas Ceasefire and Prisoner Swap After 15-Month Conflict

Jan 15, 2025, 07:25 PM

In his farewell speech, U.S. President Joe Biden announced that Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage release agreement, bringing an end to 15 months of conflict in Gaza. The deal, confirmed by multiple sources including the White House and international news agencies, will facilitate the release of hostages held by Hamas, including American citizens, and the release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails. Flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden stated, "At long last, I can announce a ceasefire and hostage deal has been reached between Israel and Hamas." Biden emphasized his administration's role in the negotiations, saying, "My diplomacy never ceased in their efforts to get this done." The agreement was brokered with the assistance of Egypt and Qatar and has been endorsed by the United Nations Security Council. The ceasefire is structured in phases, beginning with the release of hostages and prisoners and allowing humanitarian aid to reach Gaza.