What's in the Gaza ceasefire deal - and what could happen next?

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What's in the Gaza ceasefire deal - and what could happen next?
Published: Jan, 18 2025 17:38

A ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas has come into effect after 15 months of war that has killed tens of thousands of Palestinians in Gaza and inflamed tensions in the Middle East. The agreement will see fighting paused and the release of hostages taken during the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel, in exchange for Palestinians in Israeli jails being freed.

Follow live updates on the Gaza ceasefire. The multi-stage deal, brokered by mediators the United States, Qatar and Egypt, will also mean a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from parts of Gaza and a surge in humanitarian aid into the war-ravaged territory.

Here's what we know about the agreement. Phase one. Some 94 of the roughly 250 people taken hostage on 7 October remain in Hamas custody in Gaza, according to the Hostages and Missing Families Forum, which represents the families of those who were seized.

In the first stage of the ceasefire deal, 33 hostages are to be freed over the course of six weeks. These include women (including female soldiers), children and men over the age of 50. It was previously reported that Israel believes most of these hostages are alive.

At least three hostages will be released each week. The plan says three hostages will be returned on day one, four on day seven and the remaining 26 over the following five weeks. In return for the release of the captives, Israel will free 737 Palestinian prisoners during the first phase.

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