Image: Jihad Watch
Israel and Hamas have reached a cease-fire agreement, which includes the release of hostages, Fox News has confirmed.
The deal was finalized after the Qatari Prime Minister met separately with Hamas and Israeli negotiators, according to a source familiar with the discussions. A senior Hamas official also confirmed the agreement, while Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office stated that some final details were still pending but hoped they would be resolved soon.
President-elect Trump, who previously warned of potential chaos in the Middle East if no deal was reached before his inauguration, commended the agreement. “This historic ceasefire could only be achieved thanks to our victory in November, signaling our commitment to peace and the safety of Americans and allies,” Trump wrote on TRUTH Social. He also expressed his joy at the imminent return of American and Israeli hostages to their families.
The agreement was brokered by Qatari negotiators with support from Egyptian intermediaries and substantial involvement from the U.S. Both the outgoing Biden administration and the incoming Trump administration worked to secure the deal, despite concerns over Hamas rearming and internal political challenges within Netanyahu’s coalition.
A key breakthrough occurred after a meeting between Netanyahu and Trump’s incoming Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, whose assurances helped overcome resistance from Netanyahu’s right-wing coalition partners.
Trump credited his team for the achievement, stating on TRUTH Social: “With this deal, my administration will ensure Gaza never again becomes a terrorist safe haven. We’ll continue building on the momentum of this ceasefire to expand the Abraham Accords and promote peace through strength.”
The agreement also includes provisions for significant humanitarian aid to Gaza, allowing up to 600 trucks of supplies to enter daily. By the 22nd day, displaced residents will be permitted to return to northern Gaza, with Qatari and Egyptian teams overseeing inspections. The IDF will withdraw from certain areas while maintaining a limited presence in others.
As Israel prepares to implement the agreement, families and the nation are anxiously awaiting the return of captives, including seven Americans, marking a critical moment in this ongoing conflict.
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