Palestinian groups Hamas and Islamic Jihad have reportedly approved a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement, a significant step in the ongoing talks to end the nearly 16-month-long conflict in Gaza.
Two sources close to the negotiations shared with AFP that the factions had agreed to the terms and notified mediators from Qatar, Egypt, and the United States. A formal announcement may come soon, though some details still remain unresolved, particularly regarding Hamas’ final written approval.
A Palestinian official informed Reuters that Hamas had verbally agreed to the ceasefire and hostage return plan being discussed in Qatar but was awaiting additional details before giving a final written response. Meanwhile, Israeli officials denied reports suggesting Hamas had officially accepted the ceasefire, with Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office refuting claims of approval.
The proposed ceasefire, which has been under negotiation for months, would involve the release of hostages taken during Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, the release of Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, and a phased halt to the fighting. Despite Hamas’ reported agreement in principle, key details, such as the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, still need finalization.
Israeli airstrikes continued during the talks, with military officials targeting Hamas infrastructure while Palestinians in Gaza, including the displaced, faced continued violence. Both sides hope for the ceasefire’s success, as it would provide significant relief from the ongoing conflict, which has caused immense destruction and loss of life in Gaza.
The fate of the hostages taken during the October 7 attack remains a central issue in the negotiations, with Israeli officials estimating that around 98 hostages are still being held in Gaza, many of them believed to be alive. Families of the hostages remain hopeful but anxious for their loved ones’ release.
The governance of Gaza post-conflict also remains a contentious issue, with the Palestinian Authority seeking to assume control, though this faces opposition from Israel and complications regarding security guarantees and the massive rebuilding effort required.
