
Israel-Hamas agree to ceasefire in Gaza
Israel and Hamas have reached an agreement on a ceasefire and hostage release in the 15-month-long conflict in Gaza. The deal, confirmed by the mediator Qatar and U.S. president Joe Biden, is set to take effect on January 19. Celebrations are erupting across Gaza, with displaced residents expressing relief. In Tel Aviv, families of Israeli hostages also welcome the news. An official briefed on the negotiations told Reuters that the deal includes a six-week initial ceasefire period, a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces, and a hostage exchange. A second phase of negotiations is expected after some weeks to secure the release of remaining hostages, further withdrawals, and lasting peace. Previous attempts at a ceasefire had only once before reached an agreement, which resulted in the release of 105 hostages and 240 Palestinians from Israeli jails after a November 2023 week-long ceasefire.