New Delhi: In a landmark development over a year after the Gaza war erupted, Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement to end hostilities and exchange hostages for prisoners. The war, marked by widespread devastation and instability across the Middle East, now sees a pivotal turning point with this peace deal.
US President Joe Biden confirmed the agreement during a briefing on Wednesday, describing it as "a very good afternoon." He remarked, "Soon, the hostages will return home to their families," highlighting the profound impact of the breakthrough.
The peace deal entails a full ceasefire and the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Additionally, Hamas has agreed to release all hostages, while Israel will reciprocate by releasing Palestinian prisoners, according to a BBC report.
In the initial phase of the agreement, Palestinians will be able to return to their neighborhoods, and humanitarian aid in Gaza will be significantly increased. President Biden stated that phase two of the negotiations will focus on achieving a permanent resolution to the conflict. Importantly, he assured that the ceasefire would remain in place even if these negotiations extend beyond six weeks.
Flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Biden elaborated on the conditions leading to the agreement. He noted that "after 15 months of war, Hamas' senior leadership and thousands of its fighters have been killed, leaving the group operationally weakened." This, he said, was a significant factor compelling Hamas to agree to the deal.
Expressing relief, Biden said he was "deeply satisfied" with the outcome, emphasizing its importance for both Israelis awaiting the return of loved ones and Gazans enduring unimaginable suffering. Acknowledging the human cost of the conflict, he added, "Too many innocent people have died."
Biden further stated that the deal offers Palestinians an opportunity to rebuild their lives, "without Hamas." He credited a unified effort involving his administration and President-elect Donald Trump's team for successfully brokering the agreement.
As the world watches closely, this ceasefire marks a critical moment in addressing the devastation wrought by the prolonged conflict, offering a glimmer of hope for a more stable future.
With IANS inputs