Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire in 'Gaza War' After 15 Months

Reports from Reuters and Other Foreign Media

Reconstruction in Three Phases

Israel and the Palestinian militant group Hamas reached a ceasefire agreement on the 15th (local time), according to reports from Reuters, AP, and other foreign media. This comes 15 months after Hamas launched a surprise attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

According to mediators from Qatar and Hamas officials, both sides agreed to a three-phase ceasefire, initially halting hostilities for 42 days, exchanging hostages and prisoners, and discussing a permanent ceasefire. Donald Trump, the U.S. President-elect, who has been pressuring for an end to the Gaza conflict, stated that "an agreement regarding hostages in the Middle East has been reached and will be announced soon."

Israel announced that it would put the agreement to a cabinet vote on the 16th. Once the Israeli cabinet ratifies it, the date for the ceasefire to commence will be determined.

According to the agreement reported by Reuters, Hamas will release 33 hostages in the first phase of the six-week ceasefire. The Israeli military is required to gradually withdraw its forces from the Gaza Strip during the first phase of the ceasefire.

On the 16th day of the ceasefire, both sides will begin detailed discussions on the second phase of the ceasefire, which includes the release of Israeli male soldiers, a permanent ceasefire, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces. By the third phase of the ceasefire, reconstruction of the Gaza Strip will begin under the supervision of mediators such as Egypt, Qatar, and the United Nations.

Reporter Jonghyun Song scream@hankyung.com