Negotiators finalized a ceasefire agreement on Wednesday to conclude the 15-month Gaza war. An official confirmed the deal, which ends a war that caused tens of thousands of Palestinian deaths. The conflict had heightened tensions across the Middle East.
Key Details of the Agreement
The ceasefire was announced by Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister late Wednesday. It will unfold in phases over six weeks. The agreement includes the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. It also involves the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. This accord follows months of negotiations led by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. It comes just days before U.S. President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Breakdown of Ceasefire of Gaza war
Phase 1
33 Israeli hostages will be released, including women, children, and men over 50.
Israeli forces will gradually reduce their presence in the Philadelphi corridor. Full withdrawal will occur by day 50.
Phase 2
Negotiations will begin on day 16 of Phase 1. Discussions will focus on a permanent ceasefire and troop withdrawal.
All remaining hostages will be released during this phase.
Phase 3
Remaining bodies will be recovered and returned. Reconstruction of Gaza will start under international supervision.
Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations will oversee rebuilding efforts.
Humanitarian and Structural Impact of Gaza war
The war has devastated Gaza, leaving most of its 2.3 million residents displaced. Much of the region lies in ruins. Over 170,000 buildings—around 69% of Gaza’s structures—are damaged or destroyed. United Nations satellite data highlights the scale of destruction.
Clearing the estimated 42 million tons of rubble may take over a decade. Experts estimate the cost at $1.2 billion. The debris is reportedly contaminated with asbestos. Some of it likely contains human remains. The Palestinian Ministry of Health estimates 10,000 bodies remain buried beneath the rubble.
Future Challenges
Despite the agreement, lasting peace remains uncertain. Gaza’s post-conflict governance remains unresolved. Israel opposes both Hamas and the Palestinian Authority as potential administrators. Reconstruction efforts will demand significant international coordination.
International Reactions
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Saar returned home to participate in government votes on the deal. In the U.S., President-elect Trump celebrated the agreement. He hailed the planned release of hostages as a major achievement. Outgoing President Joe Biden’s administration played a role in the negotiations. This underscores strong international involvement in the peace process.
Origins of the Gaza war
The war began on October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led gunmen breached Israeli security barriers. They killed 1,200 people and abducted over 250 hostages. Israel’s military response caused over 46,000 Palestinian deaths. The conflict displaced hundreds of thousands of people. Many are now struggling in makeshift shelters during winter.
As the ceasefire takes effect, the global community hopes for lasting peace in the region. This agreement is a significant step, but challenges remain.