Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire With Prisoner Exchange and Troop Withdrawals

2025-01-16 27

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire set to begin on Sunday, as announced by Qatar and the U.S. The deal includes a temporary ceasefire, limited prisoner exchange, partial troop withdrawal, and increased aid to Gaza. Thirty-three Israeli captives, including civilians, will be released, and Israel will release over 1,000 Palestinian prisoners. Civilians in Gaza's north will be allowed to return, and aid flows will rise to 600 trucks daily. Negotiations for subsequent phases continue, with provisions for Hamas to release remaining captives in exchange for additional prisoner releases and eventual Israeli troop withdrawal. Governance of Gaza remains undecided, with proposals for international oversight under discussion.