With the backing of both the new and old administrations of the United States, as well as Egypt and Qatar, both Israel and HAMAS have committed to ceasefire.
According to The Economist, under the terms of the agreement, HAMAS is to release 33 of the 98 remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for hundreds of Palestinian prisoners. Over the next six weeks, both sides are expected to continue negotiations to finalize the withdrawal of Israeli troops from Gaza and ensure the release of other hostages.
Despite the agreement reached, the question of ending the war remains unresolved. Doubts arise regarding how many hostages are still alive, as well as HAMAS's ability to fulfill its commitments, given that some hostages were taken by other Palestinian groups. Israel is also demanding security guarantees for the subsequent phases of the agreement, which HAMAS is unlikely to accept.
For the Israeli government, a ceasefire does not signify the end of the struggle. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has achieved significant successes on the battlefield, initially opposed the agreement, but now, under considerable external pressure, he is prepared to accept the ceasefire.
Western partners, particularly the United States, have high hopes for the future agreement, as it involves a potential diplomatic initiative including an alliance between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Experts suggest that such an agreement could represent a crucial step towards stability in the Middle East, although it raises controversies within Israel.
While the majority of Israelis support the cessation of hostilities, far-right parties oppose it, viewing it as a retreat from military achievements. Netanyahu, attempting to balance between those advocating for the end of the war and radical factions, hopes that after concluding the agreement with HAMAS, he will be in a stronger position for subsequent political maneuvers.
Source: economist.