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Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire and Hostage Deal, Implementation Expected This Weekend

Jan 14, 2025, 07:24 PM

Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement in principle on a draft deal for a ceasefire in Gaza and the release of hostages, according to CBS News. Arab, U.S., and Israeli officials have indicated that if finalized, the deal could see implementation begin this weekend. The agreement comes during the final days of President Biden's presidency, with incoming President-elect Donald Trump set to oversee its implementation. The first phase of the deal includes a 42-day ceasefire period during which Hamas would release 33 women and children hostages, as well as hostages over 50 years old, in exchange for Israel releasing 30 Palestinian women and children prisoners, and 30 Palestinian prisoners aged 50 or older. Subsequent phases would involve the release of all Israeli male hostages, the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the exchange of bodies of deceased hostages and prisoners, alongside the beginning of Gaza's reconstruction and the opening of its borders. U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan expressed optimism about the deal's progress. Key figures involved in the negotiations include Biden's top Mideast adviser Brett McGurk, Trump's special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, the Qatari Prime Minister, and Mossad Director David Barnea.