Hamas has accepted draft agreement for Gaza cease-fire, hostage release: officials

Hamas and Israel have reportedly come to an agreement on a draft cease-fire deal that could potentially end the ongoing war between the two parties. The deal, which involves the release of dozens of hostages held by Hamas, marks the first positive step towards peace in over a year.

According to officials involved in the talks cited by The Associated Press, the agreement will be implemented in three phases. The first phase will initiate a 42-day cease-fire, during which 33 hostages – including children, women, elderly men, and humanitarian cases – will be released. In exchange, Hamas will receive hundreds of Palestinian prisoners, including high-profile detainees. It is believed that most of the hostages abducted by Hamas in October 2023 are still alive.

An Israeli government official emphasized that there is a “price” to pay for securing the release of the hostages but assured that Israel will not withdraw from the Gaza Strip until all captives are home safe. The potential deal also includes Israel’s withdrawal from parts of northern Gaza during the first phase, allowing displaced Palestinians to return to their homes. However, security experts warn that this move could enable Hamas to rearm and rebuild.

Humanitarian aid will also be delivered to the Gaza Strip as part of the first phase of the agreement. Details of the subsequent phases are expected to be negotiated during the initial phase. The draft agreement suggests that in the second phase, Hamas will release the remaining hostages in exchange for a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

An Israeli government official shared with FOX News that this is the first time since November 2023 that genuine negotiations with Hamas are taking place, with the terror group showing a willingness to engage constructively. The official attributed the progress to significant events such as the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar and growing domestic pressure on the group.

Qatari and Israeli officials expressed optimism about the potential deal, which could bring an end to the devastating war that has claimed thousands of lives since October 2023. The hope is that this agreement will pave the way for lasting peace and stability in the region.

As the negotiations progress, it is crucial for both parties to uphold their commitments and work towards a sustainable resolution. The international community is closely monitoring the developments and remains hopeful that this could be a turning point in the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

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