Israel and Hamas have reportedly agreed to a ceasefire and a deal to release hostages, according to Qatar and the United States, which mediated the negotiations.
The ceasefire is set to take effect on Sunday, pending approval from Israel’s cabinet. Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani announced the agreement, expressing hope for peace.
President Joe Biden welcomed the development, highlighting its potential to end hostilities in Gaza, provide essential humanitarian aid, and reunite hostages with their families.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged ongoing discussions to finalize the terms while thanking Biden for his support.
Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya credited Palestinian resilience for the agreement. However, airstrikes continued in Gaza, with reports of 82 people being killed in Gaza by Israeli forces.
This includes more than 30 fatalities in Gaza City following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel.
According to Al Jazeera Arabic’s correspondent, a strike on a house near the Engineers Union Building in northern Gaza City on Wednesday night claimed at least 18 lives.
The agreement’s initial phase includes a six-week truce, hostage exchanges, aid deliveries, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces. Further negotiations will address broader terms, including Gaza’s reconstruction and the return of all remaining hostages. Final cabinet approval in Israel is expected shortly.
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