Official statements from the Israeli government or Palestinian authorities, or reports from major news outlets.

Biden Announces Gaza Ceasefire Takes Effect; 3 Israeli Women Freed, Aid Trucks Enter

Jan 19, 2025, 04:14 PM

President Joe Biden announced on Sunday that a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has taken effect, marking the end of 15 months of conflict. Biden, speaking from Charleston, South Carolina, stated that 'the guns in Gaza have gone silent' and that the ceasefire deal, which he had proposed in May, had 'finally come to fruition.' The agreement includes the release of hostages, with three Israeli women, held for 470 days, already freed and appearing to be in good health. Four more women are expected to be released in seven days, and three additional hostages, including at least two American citizens, every seven days thereafter. By the 16th day, negotiations for the second phase of the deal will begin, aiming for a permanent end to the war without Hamas in power. Biden also mentioned that hundreds of trucks carrying humanitarian aid are entering Gaza to assist civilians affected by the war. The ceasefire is set to last for six weeks in its first phase, during which 33 hostages are expected to be released in exchange for the liberation of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. The deal was facilitated by intense mediation from the United States, Qatar, and Egypt, and Biden emphasized the importance of continued diplomatic efforts to maintain the ceasefire and work towards a lasting peace in the region.