1440 - Hamas and Israel have agreed in principle to a Qatar-mediated ceasefire and hostage-release plan. If finalized—expected this week—the agreement will mark a step toward ending the 15-month-long war that began after Hamas attacked southwestern Israeli communities, killing roughly 1,200 people and abducting around 250. The current proposal (see terms) includes a 42-day ceasefire in Gaza and a three-part plan to release Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners. Under the first phase, Hamas would free 33 hostages, including women, children, and those over 50 years old. Israel would free 30 Palestinian prisoners for each civilian hostage and 50 prisoners for each female soldier. Israel would also increase humanitarian aid and withdraw from populated areas. Negotiations for subsequent phases would continue; it is unclear what will happen after the first 42-day phase.
Nearly 100 hostages remain inside Gaza, with at least a third believed to be dead. The death toll in Gaza is around 46,000, according to the Hamas-run Health Ministry, which does not distinguish between civilians and militants. The death toll in Israel is around 1,900. See updates here (w/maps).
No comments:
Post a Comment