The Israeli government has formally agreed to a ceasefire arrangement with Hamas, marking a significant development in efforts to end the prolonged conflict in Gaza. The agreement, reached after indirect negotiations in the Egyptian city of Sharm el-Sheikh, addresses initial steps toward a broader peace framework and involves the participation of multiple international mediators, including the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey.

The approval by Israel's cabinet followed intensive discussions and came despite opposition from some right-wing members within the government. The agreement mirrors the first phase of a peace plan recently introduced by the United States, with the goal of halting hostilities and laying the groundwork for a durable resolution.

International Involvement in Monitoring the Ceasefire

According to statements from officials in Washington, the United States is set to play a role in overseeing the implementation of the ceasefire. The White House announced plans to establish a joint monitoring center, involving approximately 200 American military personnel alongside counterparts from Egypt, Qatar, Turkey, and potentially the United Arab Emirates. These troops will not be deployed inside Gaza but will coordinate with regional forces and the Israeli military to ensure compliance with the terms of the agreement. The precise location of this control center is yet to be determined.

Hostage and Prisoner Exchanges

Central to the agreement is the release of hostages held by Hamas and other armed groups. Currently, 48 individuals remain captive in Gaza, including foreign nationals. Israeli authorities expect the release process to begin within 72 hours of the ceasefire's implementation, with potential dates falling over the weekend following the agreement.

In exchange, Israel is required to release approximately 250 Palestinian detainees serving life sentences for serious offenses, as well as around 1,700 other Palestinians detained since October 2023. While the identities and backgrounds of these prisoners remain under discussion, their release represents a critical component of the negotiated settlement.

Withdrawal of Israeli Forces and Humanitarian Access

The Israeli military is expected to pull back to positions agreed upon during the talks as a prerequisite for the release of hostages. The agreement also stipulates increased humanitarian aid deliveries into Gaza, aiming to address the acute needs of the civilian population affected by the conflict.

Outstanding Issues and Next Steps

While the ceasefire agreement marks a breakthrough, several contentious issues remain unresolved. Notably, Hamas has not agreed to relinquish its weapons, a stipulation included in the broader peace plan. These and other points are expected to be addressed in subsequent negotiation rounds, which will focus on long-term security arrangements and the eventual disarmament of militant factions.

The United States has emphasized a two-phase approach to the peace process. The initial phase prioritizes the safe release of hostages, while the second phase seeks to establish a sustainable peace, including disarmament and broader security guarantees.

Background of the Conflict

The current conflict in Gaza began with an attack by Hamas and other militant groups on Israel in October 2023, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people and the abduction of more than 250 hostages. Observers note that the success of this initiative will depend on the effective implementation of its terms and continued international engagement in overseeing the transition to peace.