Israel and Hamas reach Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal

Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire deal ending 15 months of conflict, confirmed by U.S. President Joe Biden.

The agreement includes a complete ceasefire, Israel’s withdrawal from Gaza, and the release of hostages held by Hamas.

UN Secretary General António Guterres emphasized prioritizing aid to alleviate suffering.

However, the ceasefire, set to begin on January 19, follows continued violence, with Israeli airstrikes reportedly killing over 20 people, the BBC has reported.

The conflict began with Hamas’ October 7, 2023, attack, which killed 1,200 Israelis and led to a retaliatory offensive that has caused over 46,000 Palestinian deaths.

BBC reports 94 hostages remain captive, with 34 presumed dead.

Written by B.C. Begley