Israel-Hamas cease-fire deal nears as Trump’s threat revives urgency
The U.S. says a Gaza cease-fire could be finalized this week, marking a potential breakthrough in Israel’s 15-month war against Palestinians.
National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan expressed cautious optimism, highlighting narrowing gaps between Hamas and Israel on prisoner exchanges, troop withdrawals, and humanitarian aid arrangements.
The proposed agreement, which is being mediated by Qatar, Egypt and the U.S., includes a three-phase plan.
It involves a 42-day “humanitarian phase,” prioritizing the release of 33 Israeli prisoners, including women, the elderly, and the ill, in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.
Details reveal that for each Israeli female soldier released, 50 Palestinian prisoners would be freed, including those serving long sentences.
Subsequent phases focus on broader negotiations for remaining prisoners and long-term plans for Gaza’s reconstruction.
The deal includes provisions for displaced Palestinians to return to northern Gaza, with international oversight on security checks.
Meanwhile, Hamas demands a permanent cease-fire and Israel’s withdrawal from key areas, including the Philadelphi Corridor.
Israel seeks a temporary truce and expanded buffer zones.
President Joe Biden is hoping to secure the deal before his term ends on January 20, viewing the agreement as a critical achievement of his time in office.
Observers say the additional threat of a policy shift under incoming President Donald Trump has added urgency to the talks.
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