A six-week ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, involving hostage and prisoner releases, has been agreed upon, President Biden confirmed on Wednesday.
According to Biden, Hamas and its allies will release 33 hostages taken during the October 7, 2023 attacks. This initial group will include all surviving women, children, and elderly hostages.
This initial phase also entails a complete ceasefire, Israeli troop withdrawal from populated Gaza areas, and the release of numerous Palestinian prisoners, Biden stated.
Biden explained that the second phase will cover the remaining hostages, including male soldiers, and the full withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Biden described the situation positively, acknowledging the challenging path to this agreement.
Biden noted collaboration with the Trump administration’s advisors, stating the deal’s implementation will largely fall to the incoming administration and highlighting their recent unified efforts.
President-elect Trump announced the deal on Truth Social, proclaiming the imminent release of hostages.
The Associated Press reported that Hamas will release hostages in stages: three on the first day, four on the seventh, and then weekly releases thereafter. The initial 33 hostages are expected to include five female Israeli soldiers, with each release contingent upon the release of 50 Palestinian prisoners, 30 of whom are serving life sentences.
Biden attributed the deal to several factors: pressure on Hamas, Iran’s weakened regional influence, and persistent American diplomacy.
This agreement comes amidst reports of at least 74 child deaths in Gaza during the first week of 2025.
UNICEF reported on numerous mass casualty events involving children, including attacks in Gaza City, Khan Younis, and Al Mawasi, a designated safe zone.
Biden indicated that a Gaza reconstruction plan and the return of any remaining deceased hostage remains comprise the deal’s third phase.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s office released a statement noting that certain aspects of the agreement are still under development.