A ceasefire between Hamas and Israel will take effect on Sunday morning, with preparations underway for the release of hostages and humanitarian aid. The initial phase of the ceasefire will last 42 days, facilitating both prisoner exchanges and aid deliveries to Gaza. While communities prepare for potential reunions, violence continues to raise concerns and highlight the complexities involved in achieving lasting peace.
The ceasefire between Hamas and Israel is scheduled to commence on Sunday at 8:30 a.m. local time, as announced by Qatari officials. This significant development follows the overnight approval by Israel’s Cabinet. Families of hostages and humanitarian organizations are actively preparing for the potential release of hostages and an influx of aid, reflecting a renewed wave of emotions as the conflict enters a new phase.
Set to last 42 days, the initial phase of the ceasefire marks an important step toward ending over a year of intense fighting between Israel and Hamas. The negotiations for a more complex second phase are expected to start two weeks into the ceasefire. Decisions on future actions will be deliberated by Israel’s security Cabinet following the initial six weeks.
Despite the impending ceasefire, Israeli airstrikes continued, and the Gaza Health Ministry announced 23 fatalities over a 24-hour period, raising concerns among residents about the ongoing violence. Sirens were reported across central and southern Israel, which coincided with projectiles launched from Yemen targeted at Israel, introducing further layers of complexity to the situation.
The planned hostages’ release will see 33 individuals in Gaza exchanged for 737 Palestinian prisoners held by Israel. Initial exchanges are set to occur starting Sunday, including the release of three female hostages on Day 1, with subsequent exchanges scheduled for later dates. Furthermore, those not involved in the onset of the conflict will also be released, alongside provisions for significant humanitarian aid to Gaza.
During this first phase of the ceasefire, Israeli troops are expected to withdraw to a designated buffer zone in Gaza. This will facilitate the return of many displaced Palestinians to their homes amidst severe humanitarian needs. Concurrently, aid convoys from Egypt are prepared to assist incoming supplies to the region following inspections by Israeli authorities.
The conflict, began on October 7, has resulted in considerable casualties, with approximately 1,200 deaths from the Hamas-led assault and over 46,000 reported fatalities in Gaza from Israeli responses. As the ceasefire approaches, families and communities on both sides are hopeful yet apprehensive about its implementation and the return of loved ones.
In summary, the upcoming ceasefire between Hamas and Israel represents a pivotal moment for both parties, aiming to alleviate hostilities and allow humanitarian relief efforts in Gaza. As negotiations for further phases begin, the focus is on the release of hostages and the potential return of displaced residents. However, the ongoing violence and fatalities underscore the complexity and fragility of the situation, illuminating the critical need for sustained peace efforts.
Original Source: www.pbs.org
