Gaza ceasefire developments

Israeli Occupation Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that "Israel" will not tolerate any violations of the agreement.

Netanyahu emphasized in his remarks that "the full responsibility lies with Hamas."

He added, "We will not proceed with the implementation of the agreement unless we receive the list of detainees to be released as agreed."

The Wall Street Journal reported, citing informed sources, that the timing of the ceasefire between the conflicting parties may see slight changes due to ongoing logistical arrangements.

The sources added that the first three detainees to be released from Gaza are likely to all be civilian women.

They clarified that the operation will be conducted under the supervision and care of the International Red Cross to ensure its implementation according to humanitarian standards.

It was mentioned that four detainees are scheduled to be released by the end of the following weekend, with 26 others over the course of five weeks.

According to press sources, 737 Palestinian prisoners will be released from the occupation's prisons as part of the first phase of the exchange deal, distributed as follows:

• 345 prisoners from Hamas
• 229 prisoners from Fatah
• 67 prisoners from the Islamic Jihad Movement
• 19 prisoners from the Popular Front
• 6 prisoners from the Democratic Front
• 5 independent prisoners
• 1 prisoner from Fida Movement

The first phase also includes the release of 70 Palestinian female detainees and 50 children from the occupation's prisons.

The sources explained that 236 prisoners will be exiled outside Palestine, including 47 prisoners who were previously released in the Shalit deal, along with 89 prisoners from the Gaza Strip.

Among the released prisoners is a significant number of women and children from the Gaza Strip, as part of the thousand prisoners included in the deal in its various phases.

The Israeli Occupation Ministry of Justice published the names of 735 Palestinian prisoners scheduled to be released in the first phase of the prisoner exchange deal.

Read more: Detailed: Gaza ceasefire, prisoner exchange deal unveiled

On its website, the ministry said, "Under Decision No. 2689 dated Jan. 17, 2025, the list of those to be released under the plan has been determined."

It added, "The detainees in the first step will not be released according to the schedule before Sunday at 4 PM."

The military spokesperson for the Al-Quds Brigades, the armed wing of the Islamic Jihad Movement, Abu Hamza, issued a statement addressing the heavy bombardment by 'Israeli' forces.

Abu Hamza stated, “The families of the enemy’s captives must demand that the Zionist army halt the intense bombings, as these could result in the death of your loved ones during the resistance’s final field arrangements for their release.”

He added, “The intensity of the Zionist bombardment leaves us with two possibilities: either the families of the captives will receive their loved ones in coffins or alive in their homes. The decision for the final hours lies solely with the Zionist army.”

Sources confirmed that 737 Palestinian prisoners will be released in the first phase of the exchange deal, including:

• 345 from Hamas
• 229 from Fatah
• 67 from Islamic Jihad
• 19 from the Popular Front
• 6 from the Democratic Front
• 5 independents
• 1 from FIDA (Palestinian Democratic Union)

The first phase also includes the release of 70 Palestinian women and 50 children.

Additionally, 236 prisoners will be exiled outside Palestine, including 47 previously released in the Shalit deal and 89 from Gaza.

'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed his security cabinet that he received guarantees from US negotiators, assuring American support for 'Israel' if it decides to resume war, should future talks with Hamas fail.

This confirmation comes amid critical tensions in the region, with efforts underway to secure a long-term ceasefire amidst ongoing military and political challenges.

'Israeli' military announced it will implement the detainee return agreement, starting Sunday at 08:30 AM.

Forces will follow the agreed operational plan, ensuring both physical and psychological support for the returning detainees.

The military also emphasized its commitment to securing all detainees’ return and maintaining the safety of settlers near Gaza.

Hamas Prisoners’ Information Office issued a statement clarifying the publication of lists of Palestinian prisoners set to be released as part of the prisoner exchange deal.

The statement emphasized that the publication of the lists by the Israeli Occupation is a procedure specific to their side.

Hamas indicated that the release process is tied to the number of prisoners held by the occupation, based on agreed-upon categories. The process will unfold throughout the first phase of the agreement.

It further explained that the lists will be published before each exchange day, following a mechanism outlined in the ceasefire agreement.

Hebrew media reported that air activity over Gaza will pause Sunday at 12 PM Jerusalem time for 12 hours on exchange days and 10 hours on regular days.

The ‘Israeli’ government voted Saturday morning to approve the Gaza ceasefire/exchange deal, after the full cabinet gave its approval prior to the security cabinet doing the same earlier on Friday.

Twenty four ministers voted in favor and eight opposed the deal, according to Hebrew media reports.

The Cairo meeting, held to discuss “technical” mechanisms for implementing the Gaza ceasefire agreement, concluded Friday evening in a positive atmosphere, with consensus among all participating parties, according to Egyptian sources.

An informed Egyptian source confirmed that the meeting resulted in agreements on all necessary arrangements for implementing the ceasefire. These include establishing a joint operations center in Cairo to oversee implementation and ensure adherence to the agreement’s terms.

The operations center will include representatives from Egypt, Palestine, Qatar, the United States, and Israel, aiming to facilitate effective coordination and daily monitoring of progress.

The source highlighted that discussions were conducted in a spirit of cooperation, enhancing the prospects of the agreement's success in restoring calm to Gaza and ensuring stability in the region.

The “Israeli” justice ministry published a list of 95 Palestinian prisoners, the majority women, who are to be freed starting Sunday as part of the first exchange for “Israeli” captives under a Gaza ceasefire deal.

"The release of prisoners is... subject to government approval of the (ceasefire) plan and will not take place before Sunday 16:00 (1400 GMT)," the ministry said in a statement on Friday.

“Israel's” security cabinet approved the deal, while the full cabinet will convene to vote on it later on Friday.

The list includes 69 women, 16 men and 10 minors.

According to the ministry, the youngest inmate on the list is 16.

The list includes only seven prisoners who were arrested before October 7, 2023.

According to the office of “Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the release of captives as part of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between “Israel” and Hamas is expected to begin Sunday.

Two sources close to Hamas told AFP that the first group of captives to be released consists of three “Israeli” women soldiers.

Justice ministry spokesperson Noga Katz said the final number of prisoners to be released in the first swap would depend on the number of live captives released by Hamas.

Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas said on Friday the Palestinian Authority is ready to assume "full responsibility" in post-war Gaza, in his first statement since the Gaza ceasefire deal was announced.

"The Palestinian government, under president Abbas' directives, has completed all preparations to assume full responsibility in Gaza," including the return of the displaced, providing basic services, crossings management, and reconstruction of the war-torn territory, a presidency statement said.

Palestinian sources reported that Hamas has conditioned a 48-hour period of calm before the agreement starts to ensure the release of prisoners on the first day.

The sources added that mediators have pressured Netanyahu to finalize his government's approvals today.

“Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said in a statement the Gaza ceasefire-exchange deal has been approved by the security cabinet.

The full cabinet will next vote on the matter on Friday to decide on the deal. 

"After reviewing all the political, security and humanitarian aspects, and understanding that the proposed deal supports achieving the objectives of the war, (the security cabinet) has recommended that the government approve the proposed framework," the office said in a statement.

Families of 'Israeli' captives held in Gaza issued an urgent statement urging the use of the current opportunity to secure the return of all captives from the strip.

The families emphasized that any breach of the ongoing deal would amount to a death sentence for the captives, stressing the need for decisive action to ensure their return and end their suffering.

Meanwhile, Hebrew news site Walla reported that Tel Aviv will receive a list of captives slated for release from Gaza 24 hours before each batch is freed. Based on these lists, the 'Israeli' government will publish the names of Palestinian prisoners to be released in each batch.

Hamas announced early today that obstacles hindering the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, caused by the occupation's failure to comply with its terms, have been resolved.

In a statement, the movement emphasized its intensive efforts to secure an exchange deal that includes all factions and Palestinian people, highlighting the agreement’s importance in alleviating Palestinian suffering and ensuring all parties adhere to its terms.

Hamas reaffirmed its commitment to defending Palestinian rights and collaborating with all national forces to achieve shared goals.

'Israeli' Prime Minister's office announced Friday that the prisoner exchange and ceasefire deal in Gaza will begin on Sunday, following approval from the security cabinet.

Earlier Thursday, National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announced he would leave the government if the controversial deal is passed, calling it a "security disaster." Despite his departure, he expressed his continued support for Prime Minister Netanyahu.

Hebrew Channel 12 reported that families of 'Israeli' captives have received a list of 33 prisoners who will return to 'Israel' in the first stage of the upcoming exchange deal.

Among those to be released in the first phase are Hisham al-Sayed and Avraham Mengistu, who have been in resistance custody since 2014.

The first three prisoners are expected to be handed over by Hamas next Sunday at 4 PM.

Here is the list of prisoners to be released from Gaza as part of the deal, according to Roya News correspondent:

Liri Elbag
Yitzhak Alghart
Karina Arif
Ohad Ben Ami
Ariel Bibas
Yarden Bibas
Kfir Bibas
Shiri Bibas
Agam Berger
Romi Gonen
Daniela Gilboa
Emily Demari
Shajai Dekel-Khein
Yair Horn
Omer Winkert
Alexander Trobanov
Arbel Yehud
Ohad Yahlomi
Eliyahu Cohen
Or Levi
Naama Levi
Oded Levshitz
Moshe Moses
Avraham Mengistu
Shlomo Mansour
Shmuel Segel-Keith
Tsachi Aidan
Ofer Calderon
Tal Shoham
Doron Steinberger
Omer Sham-Tov
Hisham Al-Sayed
Eliyahu Sharabi

According to Channel 12, the 'Israeli' military has decided to assign two divisions to defend settlements along the Gaza Strip. This marks the first time such an arrangement has been made.

The move is part of new security measures being implemented along the Gaza border to enhance security in the area. These measures include the deployment of additional reinforcements and a focus on improving coordination between forces to counter any potential threats from Gaza.

'Israeli' military radio reported today that the Security Cabinet will meet at 10 AM Jerusalem time on Friday to approve the prisoner exchange deal. This step is part of the progress made towards implementing the agreement, which aims to release a number of Palestinian prisoners.

The radio also cited government sources indicating that a special session may be held later in the day to discuss the deal’s details, in an effort to avoid delaying its implementation until Monday.

Meanwhile, it is anticipated that the list of Palestinian prisoners set for release will be published on Friday evening, drawing significant attention from Palestinian and international circles.

A statement by ‘Israeli’ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed that the Gaza ceasefire/exchange deal was signed by the negotiating team in Doha.

The statement added that the families of the remaining 98 captives were updated of the situation.

“The State of Israel is committed to achieving all the goals of the war, including the return of all our hostages — both the living and the dead,” Netanyahu’s office said.

The Israeli Occupation government isn’t expected to vote on it until Sunday night, a report by Axios added.

'Israeli' Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir announced in a press statement on Thursday that his party would resign from the government if a ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement is approved.

He added that if 'Israel' decides to resume fighting Hamas as his party has demanded, they will return to supporting the government.

Ben-Gvir also criticized the celebrations in Gaza and the West Bank, saying they reflect who truly “surrendered” in this war.

While Ben-Gvir's resignation alone would not collapse Netanyahu’s coalition, he has reportedly urged Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich to join him in stepping down.

Ben-Gvir described the proposed ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal as a “capitulation” to Hamas, calling on Prime Minister Netanyahu to continue the assault on the Gaza Strip.

Hamas official Basem Naeem said Thursday that Jordan's role, from His Majesty the King, government, and people, is deeply appreciated and respected.

In statements, Naeem said that Hamas views Jordan's stance not just as support for Palestine but as an “authentic rooted partnership”.

He added that Hamas leaders have, on numerous occasions, expressed their gratitude to Jordan for its historical position toward the Palestinian people.

"We stand with our brothers in Jordan in confronting the threat posed by the occupation, which endangers our people in the West Bank and Jerusalem, presenting a direct threat to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan,” Naeem said.

“Israel” has failed miserably in Gaza, the leader of Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis said on Thursday, a day after a ceasefire deal was announced in the Strip.

"The Israeli enemy failed to achieve its declared and clear goals, and failed miserably to recover its prisoners without an exchange deal," Abdulmalik al-Huthi said in a televised address, insisting that “Israel” and the US were "obliged" to accept the ceasefire.

Yedioth Ahronoth reports that the 'Israeli' Cabinet will meet tomorrow to officially approve the deal, which is set to be implemented on Sunday.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken voiced confidence that the implementation of a ceasefire in Gaza would begin Sunday, after “Israel” held off on a cabinet vote and accused Hamas of backtracking.

"I am confident, and I fully expect that implementation will begin, as we said, on Sunday," Blinken said at a farewell news conference Thursday.

Blinken said that he and other officials of President Joe Biden's administration, which ends Monday, were on the telephone to try to resolve issues in the ceasefire announced Wednesday through mediator Qatar.

"It's not exactly surprising that in a process, in a negotiation, that has been this challenging and this fraught, you may get a loose end. We're tying up that loose end as we speak," Blinken said.

'Israeli' Broadcasting Authority reported that the disagreements surrounding the Gaza ceasefire agreement have been resolved, with a statement expected to be released shortly.

“Israel” accused Hamas of backtracking on parts of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal in Gaza.

"Hamas have reneged on this hostage release agreement and have created a last-minute crisis in an effort to extort last-minute concessions," claims the “Israeli” government spokesperson David Mencer during a press briefing.

Abu Obaida, military spokesperson for Hamas’ military wing, announced Thursday that “Israeli” forces targeted a location where one of the captives set to be included in the first phase of exchanges in the ceasefire deal was located.

“Each attack or strike by Israeli forces during this sensitive phase risks turning the hope of freedom for a captive into a tragedy,” Abu Obaida said in a statement on his Telegram channel.

The statement did not clarify the fate of the “Israeli” captive nor its identity.

US National Security Council spokesperson John Kirby dismissed reports of a Gaza ceasefire collapse, stating the deal is intact with minor details pending. Implementation is set for Sunday.

Kirby highlighted shared efforts by Presidents Biden and Trump to end the aggression and free captives. 

The success of the ceasefire's first phase remains critical to advancing toward a full resolution.

Sources revealed to Axios that Donald Trump's Middle East envoy informed 'Israeli' Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of Trump’s seriousness about completing the Gaza deal, cautioning against hindering the agreement.

The envoy played a pivotal role in the negotiations, applying direct pressure on the 'Israeli' government under Trump’s directives.

An American official told Axios that Trump’s involvement gave both Hamas and 'Israel' stronger incentives to finalize the deal, beyond the efforts of the Biden administration.

The report added that Trump’s envoy urged Netanyahu to send senior officials with full authority to finalize the agreement. Joint meetings involving Trump and Biden’s envoys were held with Netanyahu and top negotiators to explore areas of flexibility for advancing the deal.

Ezzat al-Rishq, a member of Hamas' political bureau, confirmed the movement's adherence to the Gaza ceasefire agreement announced by mediators.

This statement came in response to claims made by 'Israeli' Prime Minister Netanyahu's office.

"Israeli" Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of backtracking its commitment to a ceasefire agreement in Gaza.

On Thursday, he stated that Hamas failed to uphold certain aspects of the deal, which has delayed its approval by the Israeli Occupation government.

In a statement, Netanyahu accused Hamas of "reneging on parts of the agreement reached with the mediators and Israel in an effort to extort last-minute concessions."

He emphasized that the Israeli Occupation cabinet will remain in session until mediators confirm that Hamas has agreed to all components of the ceasefire proposal.

His Majesty King Abdullah II welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire in Gaza, calling on the world to intensify efforts to alleviate the tragedy caused by the war by enhancing humanitarian response.

We welcome the Gaza ceasefire and urge the world to alleviate the tragedy by maximising the humanitarian response. We value the efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the US, and reaffirm Jordan’s commitment to supporting the Palestinians, sustaining aid flow, and working for peace

— عبدالله بن الحسين (@KingAbdullahII) January 16, 2025

His Majesty expressed appreciation for the roles of Egypt, Qatar, and the US, emphasizing the importance of sustaining the ceasefire.

He affirmed that Jordan will continue to stand with its brothers in Palestine, provide ongoing assistance, and work toward achieving peace.

Arab and international leaders welcomed the announcement of a ceasefire between Palestinian resistance factions and the Israeli Occupation.

In Qatar, Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani expressed optimism on X that the agreement would help end violence and destruction in Gaza and the occupied Palestinian territories. He urged a just resolution to the Palestinian cause and highlighted Qatar's diplomatic role as a humanitarian obligation above all.

The Emir commended Egypt and the US for their role in brokering the agreement.

نأمل أن يُسهم إعلان اتفاق وقف إطلاق النار في غزة في إنهاء العدوان والتدمير والقتل في القطاع والأراضي الفلسطينية المحتلة، وبدء مرحلة جديدة لا يتم فيها تهميش هذه القضية العادلة، والعمل الجاد على حلها حلاً عادلاً وفق قرارات الشرعية الدولية. الدور الدبلوماسي لدولة قطر في الوصول لهذا…

— تميم بن حمد (@TamimBinHamad) January 15, 2025

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi hailed the deal as the culmination of over a year of dedicated Egyptian, Qatari, and American mediation. He called for the immediate and unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and reaffirmed Egypt's unwavering support for Palestinian rights and fair peace.

أرحب بالتوصل إلى اتفاق لوقف إطلاق النار في قطاع غزة بعد جهود مضنية على مدار أكثر من عام بوساطة مصرية قطرية أمريكية.
ومع هذا الاتفاق، أؤكد على أهمية الإسراع في إدخال المساعدات الإنسانية العاجلة لأهل غزة، لمواجهة الوضع الإنساني الكارثي الراهن، وذلك دون أي عراقيل، لحين تحقق السلام…

— Abdelfattah Elsisi (@AlsisiOfficial) January 15, 2025

The UAE's Foreign Minister, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, welcomed the agreement, which included provisions for the release of captives and detainees. He stressed the need to uphold the agreement's terms and urged the international community to renew efforts toward a sustainable peace process that guarantees Palestinian rights.

Saudi Arabia joined in welcoming the ceasefire, calling for an end to Israeli Occupation aggression in Gaza. A statement from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) expressed hope that the agreement would restore stability and facilitate humanitarian aid delivery to Gaza.

Lebanon's former Prime Minister Najib Mikati voiced hope for the ceasefire's sustainability and called on the Israeli Occupation to comply with terms that could lead to a comprehensive resolution of the Palestinian issue.

ان هذا الاعلان ينهي صفحة دموية من تاريخ الشعب الفلسطيني الذي عانى الكثير جراء العدوان الاسرائيلي. وكل الامل في ان يكون وقف اطلاق النار مستداما وان تلتزم به اسرائيل، ليصار تاليا الى ايجاد حل نهائي للقضية الفلسطينية واعطاء الفلسطينيين حقوقهم المشروعة.

— Najib Mikati (@Najib_Mikati) January 15, 2025

The speaker of the Arab Parliament, Mohammed Ahmed Al-Yamahi, described the agreement as a crucial step toward de-escalation, lauding Egypt and Qatar’s efforts in securing the truce.

Iraq also welcomed the ceasefire and stressed the importance of immediately delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza. The Iraqi Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated its support for the Palestinian right to self-determination and praised the collaborative efforts of Qatar, Egypt, and the US in brokering the agreement.

- International responses -

UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need to address Gaza's humanitarian crisis. 

I welcome the announcement of a deal to secure a ceasefire & hostage release in Gaza.

I commend the mediators — Egypt, Qatar & the USA — for their dedicated efforts in brokering this deal.

I call on all to uphold their commitments & ensure that this deal is fully implemented.…

— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) January 15, 2025

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen described the agreement as a source of hope for the region, calling for strict adherence to its terms.

I warmly welcome the ceasefire and hostage release agreement in Gaza.

Hostages will be reunited with their loved ones and humanitarian aid can reach civilians in Gaza.

This brings hope to an entire region, where people have endured immense suffering for far too long.

Both…

— Ursula von der Leyen (@vonderleyen) January 15, 2025

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed support for the deal, stressing the importance of pursuing a long-term political solution to the aggression.

Filistin Direniş Hareketi HAMAS ile İsrail arasındaki ateşkes görüşmelerinin anlaşmayla sonuçlanmasını memnuniyetle karşılıyoruz.

Anlaşmanın, Filistinli kardeşlerimiz başta olmak üzere bölgemiz ve tüm insanlık için hayırlara vesile olmasını, kalıcı barış ve istikrara kapı…

— Recep Tayyip Erdoğan (@RTErdogan) January 15, 2025

Après quinze mois de calvaire injustifiable, soulagement immense pour les Gazaouis, espoir pour les otages et leurs familles. Ce soir, mes pensées vont à Ofer et Ohad.

L'accord doit être respecté. Les otages, libérés. Les Gazaouis, secourus. Une solution politique doit advenir.

— Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) January 15, 2025

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock expressed hope that the ceasefire would put an end to the violence and suffering in Gaza.

In diesen Stunden gibt es Hoffnung, dass die Geiseln endlich freikommen und das Sterben in Gaza ein Ende findet. Alle, die Verantwortung tragen, sollten jetzt dafür sorgen, dass diese Chance genutzt wird.

— Außenministerin Annalena Baerbock (@ABaerbock) January 15, 2025

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the agreement, calling it a long-overdue resolution.

In his statement, Starmer emphasized the importance of alleviating the suffering on both sides and expressed relief at the safe return of captives to their families. He also extended condolences to the victims, including British nationals who lost their lives during the aggression.

My statement on the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. pic.twitter.com/eLbgaTr4dP

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) January 15, 2025

Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO), echoed these sentiments, stating that “peace is the best medicine” and underscoring the need for swift and unhindered aid delivery to Gaza.

Peace is the best medicine!

The #Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal is welcome and encouraging. Too many lives have been lost and too many families have suffered. We hope all parties will respect the deal and work towards lasting peace.

Health needs in Gaza remain…

— Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus (@DrTedros) January 15, 2025

A sense of relief has spread through Gaza following the announcement of a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and the Israeli Occupation. However, significant challenges lie ahead, particularly in the strip's reconstruction, which is expected to take years and require massive international efforts.

More than 18 months of the Israeli Occupation aggression have left Gaza in ruins. Extensive airstrikes and ground operations destroyed over 70 percent of the region’s housing, with damage ranging from partial to complete. Critical infrastructure, including hospitals, schools, and utilities, has also been severely affected.

The UN estimates the cost of rebuilding to be over USD 80 billion. Additionally, clearing more than 42 million tons of rubble—a process expected to cost over USD 1 billion—remains a major hurdle.

The UN warned that removing the rubble is a highly complex and time-consuming task. The presence of unexploded bombs, hazardous materials, and bodies buried under debris exacerbates the challenge. Building new homes could take until 2040 or beyond, particularly if reconstruction efforts proceed at the sluggish pace observed after previous Israeli Occupation aggressions.

In the agricultural sector, satellite imagery reveals that over half of Gaza’s farmlands have been damaged by bombings, intensifying food insecurity and compounding the hardship faced by residents.

Egyptian media announced on Wednesday that the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will reopen on Thursday following a ceasefire agreement between Hamas and the Israeli Occupation.

Egyptian news site, Cairo 24, reported that “the Rafah crossing will open on Thursday,” without providing further details about the operational mechanism or the expected duration of the reopening.

The Israeli Occupation had closed the crossing in May last year after a large-scale military operation that swept through the city of Rafah, destroying significant portions of its infrastructure, including the Rafah crossing facilities. The crossing serves as a vital lifeline for Gaza’s residents, allowing the entry of humanitarian aid and the movement of individuals.

A senior UN official stated on Wednesday that increasing the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza will be challenging without robust security arrangements.

The official, who spoke to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said, “Security is not the responsibility of humanitarian workers, and the current situation is extremely chaotic. Without clear security arrangements, it will be difficult to enhance aid delivery in the near term.”

Key mediator Qatar said on Wednesday that 33 captives held by Hamas in Gaza would be released in the first stage of a ceasefire deal aimed at ending the war in the Gaza Strip.

Two sources close to Hamas earlier told AFP that “Israel” would release about 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, while an “Israeli” government spokesman said hundreds would be released.

Below are the key details of the expected initial phase of the deal according to Qatari, US, “Israeli” and Palestinian officials and media reports.

Qatar said Wednesday that “Israel” and Hamas had agreed to a ceasefire in Gaza starting on Sunday and a prisoner exchange after 15 months.

Thirty-three “Israeli” captives will be released in the first, 42-day phase of the agreement that could become a "permanent ceasefire", said Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani.

Those first released would be "civilian women and female recruits, as well as children, elderly people... civilian ill people and wounded", he said.

“Israeli” government spokesman David Mencer said on Tuesday Israel was "prepared to pay a heavy price -- in the hundreds" in exchange for the 33 captives.

An anonymous “Israeli” official said "several hundred terrorists" would be freed in exchange for the captives, with the final number depending on how many of the 33 captives are alive.

Two sources close to Hamas told AFP that “Israel” would release about 1,000 Palestinian prisoners, including those with "lengthy sentences".

Sheikh Mohammed said the number of Palestinian prisoners to be released in exchange for the “Israeli” captives in the second and third phases would be "finalised" during the initial 42 days.

The 33 are among the 94 captives held in Gaza since October 7, 2023. The total includes 34 captives the “Israeli” military has declared dead.

According to “The Times of Israel”, “Israeli” officials believe the 33 captives are alive, though confirmation from Hamas is pending.

During the initial, 42-day ceasefire “Israeli” forces will withdraw from Gaza's densely populated areas to "allow for the swap of prisoners, as well as the swap of remains and the return of the displaced people", Qatar's prime minister said.

Negotiations for a second phase would commence on the "16th day" after the first phase's implementation, an “Israeli” official said.

This phase would cover the release of the remaining captives, including "male soldiers, men of military age, and the bodies of slain hostages", the “Times of Israel” reported.

“Israeli” media reported that under the proposed deal, “Israel” would maintain a buffer zone within Gaza during the first phase.

“Israeli” forces were expected to remain up to "800 metres inside Gaza stretching from Rafah in the south to Beit Hanun in the north," according to a source close to Hamas.

“Israeli” forces would not fully withdraw from Gaza until "all hostages are returned", the “Israeli” official said.

Haaretz newspaper reported that “Israel” would allow the movement of residents from southern Gaza to the north.

The source close to Hamas said “Israeli” forces would withdraw from the Netzarim corridor westward toward Salaheddin Road to the east, enabling displaced people to return through an electronic checkpoint equipped with cameras.

"No Israeli forces will be present, and Palestinian militants will be barred from passing through the checkpoint during the return of displaced persons," he said.

Joint mediators Qatar, the United States and Egypt will monitor the ceasefire deal through a body based in Cairo, Sheikh Mohammed said, urging "calm" in Gaza before the agreement comes into force.

There was "a clear mechanism to negotiate phase two and three", Sheikh Mohammed added.

"We hope that this will be the last page of the war, and we hope that all parties will commit to implementing all the terms of this agreement," Qatar's prime minister said as he unveiled the deal.

Under the arrangements outlined by Qatar, the details of phases two and three will be "finalised" during the implementation of phase one.

US President Joe Biden said the as-yet unfinalized second phase would bring a "permanent end to the war".

Biden said phase two would comprise an exchange for the release of remaining captives who are still alive, including the male soldiers. Then all remaining “Israeli” forces would withdraw from Gaza, the US president said.

The "final details" of the Gaza ceasefire deal are still being worked on, the office of “Israeli” Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in the early hours of Thursday.

"An official statement by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will be issued only after the completion of the final details of the agreement, which are being worked on at present," his office said in a statement released at midnight.

Palestinian sources reported that “Israeli” strikes targeted a group of Palestinians near the entrance to the Nuseirat refugee camp in central Gaza.

In addition, intense “Israeli” airstrikes hit Gaza City following the announcement of a ceasefire – per Roya’s correspondent.

Another attack o western Gaza City left 18 people dead and others injured.

The strikes came as residents of Gaza were celebrating the newly announced ceasefire agreement.

Ansar Allah (Houthis) spokesperson Yahya Saree reaffirmed Palestine as the primary cause following the announcement of a Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal.

Saree declared, "With the conclusion of the Gaza support battle and the announcement of the ceasefire, Palestine remains the foremost cause."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates welcomed the Gaza ceasefire agreement and commended the efforts of Egypt, Qatar, and the United States.

Deputy Prime Minister Ayman Safadi emphasized the urgent need for international humanitarian aid to address Gaza’s crisis and called for a concerted effort to rebuild Gaza and alleviate Palestinian suffering.

Safadi affirmed Jordan's continued humanitarian support under King Abdullah II’s guidance and stressed the importance of a comprehensive solution, advocating for a two-state solution with an independent Palestinian state and East Jerusalem as its capital as the only path to lasting peace.

Celebrations in Gaza after ceasefire announcement

Hamas issued a statement celebrating the ceasefire agreement as a result of the steadfastness of the Palestinian people and their resistance in Gaza.

The movement highlighted that the agreement marks a significant milestone in the struggle for liberation and the right of return.

The statement also expressed gratitude for the international solidarity with Gaza, especially thanking Qatar and Egypt for their mediation efforts.

Hamas emphasized that the agreement aims to stop the ongoing aggression and suffering in Gaza.

Khalil Al-Hayya, a prominent Hamas leader, expressed pride in the struggle of the Palestinian people during a historical moment of their jihad, speaking about the importance of defending Jerusalem and Aqsa Mosque.

US President Joe Biden said in a statement Wednesday he was “thrilled” that “Israeli” captives would be released after a Gaza ceasefire deal was officially announced by Qatar earlier today.

Biden credited the “dogged and painstaking” American diplomacy for the agreement.

Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister announced in a press conference that Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have reached an agreement regarding Gaza. He expressed appreciation for the efforts of Egypt and the US in advancing the negotiations.

Work will continue tonight on finalizing the execution details of the agreement, which is set to take effect on Sunday, January 19.

Under the terms of the agreement, Hamas will release 33 captives in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. The Prime Minister added that details of the second and third phases will be revealed after the completion of the first stage.

Qatar, Egypt, and the US will ensure the implementation of the ceasefire agreement.

Incoming US president Donald Trump vowed Wednesday to prevent Gaza from becoming a "terrorist safe haven" after a ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas nears announcement.

Trump said on his Truth Social network that his White House would "continue to work closely with Israel and our Allies to make sure Gaza NEVER again becomes a terrorist safe haven."

“Israel” said Wednesday that several points in the Gaza ceasefire and prisoner exchange deal still needed to be resolved but expected them to be "finalised tonight," even as news spread that an agreement with Hamas had been reached.

"Several clauses in the framework remain unresolved, and we hope that the details will be finalised tonight," Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office said in a statement.

Celebrations in Gaza as ceasefire nears completion

A source within Hamas, as reported by the Palestinian Information Center, stated that the ceasefire will take effect 24 hours after the official announcement.

The source added that the first phase of the ceasefire agreement will involve the release of all women and children from 'Israeli' prisons.

Additionally, the agreement will include the release of 250 prisoners serving life sentences and 400 prisoners with long-term sentences from 'Israeli' prisons.

US President-Elect Donald Trump apparently confirmed that a prisoner exchange agreement between Hamas and “Israel” has been brokered.

“WE HAVE A DEAL FOR THE HOSTAGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST,” Trump said on social media platform Truth Social.

“THEY WILL BE RELEASED SHORTLY. THANK YOU!” Trump added.

Qatar's Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani met with Hamas on Wednesday to finalize a Gaza truce deal, a source close to the talks told Agence France-Presse (AFP).

The "Qatari PM is meeting Hamas negotiators in his office for final push towards Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal", the source said on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of talks.

The leadership of the Islamic Resistance Movement (Hamas) has officially submitted its response to mediators regarding a proposed ceasefire agreement – the group said in a statement.

“In an urgent meeting, the political bureau of Hamas deliberated on the mediators' proposal,” the statement continued.

Hamas dealt “responsibility and positivity,” with the negotiations – the statement concluded.

The statement did not clarify what the group’s response was.

The “Israeli” negotiating team was just informed that Hamas made a last minute demand regarding the Philadelphi Corridor – as claimed by Hebrew Channel 12 citing a senior political source.

Hamas’ demands –reportedly– are in contrast to the maps that have already been approved by the “Israeli” cabinet and American mediators.

“Israel firmly opposed any change to these maps,” the report said.

Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani will hold a press conference later today amid reports that a Gaza ceasefire fire deal looms closer than ever, according to an invitation by Qatar’s state news agency (QNA) per Reuters.

London-based Qatari-owned news outlet Al-Araby Al-Jadeed reported that al-Thani will announce that “Israel” and Hamas have reached an agreement.

'Israeli' Broadcasting Authority reported that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to hold a consultation meeting shortly regarding the prisoner exchange deal.

Channel 12 added that Netanyahu's meeting with Smotrich concluded with an agreement to continue dialogue and work toward a consensus.

'Israeli' media reported that hundreds of protesters gathered outside Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s residence in Jerusalem, calling for a comprehensive agreement.

Two Palestinian sources close to the Doha negotiations confirmed that Hamas and Islamic Jihad have agreed to a ceasefire deal and a prisoner exchange agreement.

A source told Agence France-Presse (AFP) that “Hamas and Islamic Jihad informed mediators of their approval of the final draft of the ceasefire agreement and prisoner exchange deal.”

Another source added that “Hamas conveyed its positive response to Israel through mediators after reaching an agreement on all points and details.”

This development marks a significant step toward resolving tensions, with implementation now contingent on final procedural steps.

Channel 12 revealed that the initial agreement includes the release of Palestinian detainees, along with increased humanitarian aid for Gaza.

The report said that agreement is similar to the one proposed on May 27, 2024, and the first captives to be released are children and non-combatant women.

• First day: Three captives will be released
• Seventh day: Four captives will be released
• Day 14 : Three released (priority for women)
• Day 21: Three released
• Day 28 : Three released
• Day 35: Three released

By then, 19 captives will be released out of the 33.

The first stage will last 42 days, and the remaining 14 out of the total of 33 captives will be released in the last week of the first phase, and will mostly include children, women, female soldiers, aged 50+, sick and wounded men.

What will Hamas get in return?

• 1,000 Palestinian prisoners will be released from prison, those (allegedly) charged with murder will be released to Gaza, Qatar, or Turkey
• Fighters captured from Hamas’ special operations force (Nukhba) will not be released in the first stage
• The “Israeli” military will withdraw from Netzarim Corridor
• Humanitarian aid will be increased to 600 trucks per day
• Residents of the northern Gaza Strip will be able to return to their homes starting from January 22.
• Most “Israeli” forces will withdraw from the Philadelphi Corridor