Israel and Hamas Agree to Ceasefire, but Strikes on Gaza Continue
World
After 15 months of bloodshed, Israel and Hamas announced a ceasefire and prisoner exchange. However, instead of the expected calm, Israeli strikes on Gaza intensified, raising questions about the ceasefire’s future. What does the agreement entail, and why are attacks continuing?
January 16 — Israel intensified its attacks on the Gaza Strip just hours after announcing an agreement with Hamas. Residents and local authorities report numerous casualties despite the ceasefire scheduled to begin on Sunday.
The agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, includes a six-week ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and a prisoner exchange. Hamas has pledged to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees.
Qatar’s Prime Minister stated that negotiations are ongoing to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement. U.S. President Joe Biden called it a step toward peace, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian aid for Gaza’s residents.
However, according to local officials, Israeli bombardments continue, particularly in the northern and southern parts of Gaza. Dozens of people have died over the past 24 hours.
Meanwhile, Gaza residents welcomed the news of the ceasefire, taking to the streets with Palestinian flags. In Israel, families of hostages also expressed hope for their loved ones’ swift return.
The first phase of the agreement includes the release of 33 hostages, including women, children, elderly men, and two American citizens. If the ceasefire holds, it could halt a conflict that has claimed over 46,000 lives and destroyed much of Gaza.
The agreement, brokered by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, includes a six-week ceasefire, the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza, and a prisoner exchange. Hamas has pledged to release hostages in exchange for Palestinian detainees.
Qatar’s Prime Minister stated that negotiations are ongoing to ensure the successful implementation of the agreement. U.S. President Joe Biden called it a step toward peace, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian aid for Gaza’s residents.
However, according to local officials, Israeli bombardments continue, particularly in the northern and southern parts of Gaza. Dozens of people have died over the past 24 hours.
Meanwhile, Gaza residents welcomed the news of the ceasefire, taking to the streets with Palestinian flags. In Israel, families of hostages also expressed hope for their loved ones’ swift return.
The first phase of the agreement includes the release of 33 hostages, including women, children, elderly men, and two American citizens. If the ceasefire holds, it could halt a conflict that has claimed over 46,000 lives and destroyed much of Gaza.
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