Palenstine (Journos News) – At least thirty-three Palestinians died in Israeli air strikes across the Gaza Strip on Tuesday. The Hamas-run Civil Defence agency and several hospitals confirmed the deaths.
The strikes came after Israel accused Hamas of breaking the ceasefire by shooting at its troops. Hamas denied the allegation and said it remained committed to the truce.

Israel Says Hamas Violated the Ceasefire

Israel’s defence minister, Israel Katz, said the attacks were a direct answer to what he called “clear violations” by Hamas. He claimed that fighters opened fire on Israeli soldiers inside Gaza.
The clash marks the most serious rise in tension since the U.S.-brokered ceasefire began earlier this month under President Donald Trump’s peace plan.

In a televised speech, Katz said Hamas crossed “a bright red line.” He warned that the group would “pay many times over” for any attack or breach linked to the return of hostages’ bodies.
Hamas responded that it had “no connection” to the reported shooting in Rafah.

Homes and Streets Hit Across Gaza

Air strikes targeted homes and busy residential areas in Gaza City, Beit Lahia, al-Bureij, Nuseirat, and Khan Younis.
Civil Defence teams said rescue workers struggled to reach several areas due to ongoing explosions and a lack of heavy equipment.

“Some of the missing are still under the rubble,” a Civil Defence spokesperson told the BBC. “We fear the death toll will rise.”

Four members of the al-Banna family died when a strike hit their home in Gaza City’s Sabra neighbourhood.
Another attack in Khan Younis hit a vehicle and killed five people, including two children and a woman.

Witnesses also reported explosions near al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza City. The Israeli military said it targeted what it described as “operational sites” used by Hamas.

Netanyahu Orders “Forceful Strikes”

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said he ordered “forceful strikes” after what he called “terrorist violations” of the ceasefire.
The military said the incident took place “east of the Yellow Line,” a zone Israel controls under the ceasefire terms.

Israeli media said troops in Rafah came under sniper fire and an anti-tank missile attack. Palestinian outlets reported Israeli artillery fire in southern Gaza at the same time.

Hamas Rejects Israel’s Claims

Hamas condemned the Israeli strikes. It repeated that it had “no link” to the shooting incident in Rafah.
The group called the air strikes a “blatant violation” of the U.S.-mediated deal.

Later on Tuesday, Hamas’s military wing announced a delay in returning the body of an Israeli hostage. It blamed Israel for what it described as repeated violations of the truce.

U.S. Urges Both Sides to Avoid Escalation

In Washington, U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance said the ceasefire was still in place. He acknowledged “small skirmishes” but said the overall agreement remained stable.
“We expect the Israelis to respond,” he said, “but the president’s peace plan will hold.”

President Trump also said the ceasefire would remain intact. He added that Israel “should hit back” if its soldiers were attacked.

Hostage Exchange Adds New Strains

Israel accused Hamas of breaking the ceasefire terms earlier this week. The group returned a coffin containing remains that did not match any of the thirteen deceased hostages still in Gaza.
Israeli forensic teams later identified the remains as belonging to Ofir Tzarfati, whose body had already been recovered in 2023.

Under the terms of the truce, Hamas must return all hostages and remains within seventy-two hours of the ceasefire’s start on 10 October.

Israel says Hamas released twenty living hostages on 13 October. In return, Israel freed 250 Palestinian prisoners and more than 1,700 detainees from Gaza.
Israel also returned the bodies of 195 Palestinians in exchange for the remains of thirteen Israeli hostages and two foreign nationals.

Drone Footage Triggers Further Dispute

The Israeli military released drone footage that it said showed Hamas fighters burying human remains in eastern Gaza before calling Red Cross staff to the site.
Hamas rejected the footage as “baseless” and claimed Israel was creating “false pretexts for aggression.”

The International Committee of the Red Cross confirmed it visited the area “in good faith.” It said its team did not know a body had been placed at the site beforehand.
The ICRC called any staging of remains “unacceptable” during efforts to maintain the ceasefire.

Ceasefire Framework Under Heavy Strain

The truce, negotiated by the United States, Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey, is part of Trump’s twenty-point Gaza peace plan.
The agreement requires Hamas to return all hostages and remains. In return, Israel must suspend offensive operations and allow humanitarian aid to enter Gaza.

Hamas negotiator Khalil al-Hayya said the group could not locate every body due to Israeli ground operations. He said the fighting had “changed the terrain.”
Israeli officials rejected the claim and said Hamas “knows exactly” where the remains are kept.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens

Most of the deceased hostages still in Gaza were among the 251 people kidnapped during the 7 October 2023 Hamas-led attack on southern Israel. That attack killed about 1,200 people.
Israel’s military operations since then have left more than 68,500 Palestinians dead, according to Gaza’s health ministry.

Aid groups, including the United Nations and World Health Organization, warn that new fighting could halt fragile relief operations.
They say millions of people in Gaza remain displaced and rely on food, shelter, and medical aid.

Source: BBC – Israeli strikes kill 33 in Gaza, Hamas-run civil defence says, as Trump insists ceasefire remains

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The military later reported that it had resumed enforcement of the ceasefire, and an Israeli security official confirmed that aid deliveries were expected to continue Monday. The official spoke on condition of anonymity due to restrictions on speaking to the media.

The renewed fighting comes just over a week after the U.S.-brokered ceasefire, aimed at ending more than two years of conflict. There was no immediate comment from the United States.

Casualties and Strikes in Gaza

Health authorities in Gaza reported at least 36 Palestinian deaths, including children, from Israeli strikes. The Israeli military said it targeted dozens of Hamas positions after its troops came under fire in areas near Rafah, part of the agreed ceasefire lines.

A senior Egyptian official involved in ceasefire negotiations said “round-the-clock” diplomatic efforts were underway to de-escalate tensions. The official spoke anonymously because he was not authorized to brief the media.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu directed the military to take “strong action” against any violations but did not issue threats of returning to full-scale war. Hamas, meanwhile, accused Israel of multiple ceasefire breaches and stated that it had been unable to communicate with some of its units in Rafah for months. “We are not responsible for any incidents occurring in those areas,” the group said.

Impact on Civilians

Residents expressed concern that the renewed violence could escalate, further straining humanitarian conditions in the territory. Mahmoud Hashim, a father of five in Gaza City, called on U.S. and international mediators to intervene.

Medical facilities reported multiple casualties from airstrikes. Al-Awda hospital received 24 bodies from strikes in central Gaza, including Nuseirat and Bureij camps. An airstrike in Zawaida killed six, and two men were killed in Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza, according to Shifa Hospital. In southern Gaza, a strike on a tent in Muwasi, Khan Younis, killed at least four, including two children.

“Where is peace?” asked Khadijeh Abu-Nofal from Khan Younis as she assisted hospital staff treating wounded children.

Hostage Remains Identified

Israel confirmed the identification of two hostages released by Hamas overnight: Ronen Engel, a father from Kibbutz Nir Oz, and Sonthaya Oakkharasri, a Thai agricultural worker from Kibbutz Be’eri. Both are believed to have been killed during the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which triggered the ongoing war. Engel’s wife and two of his three children were previously kidnapped and released under a ceasefire in November 2023.

Hamas has returned the remains of 12 hostages in the past week. The group’s armed wing, the Qassam Brigades, said it located another hostage and planned to hand over the body if security conditions allowed, warning that any Israeli escalation could disrupt recovery efforts.

Israel has pressed Hamas to complete the return of all 28 deceased hostages. The Rafah border crossing with Egypt remained closed Saturday pending progress on the exchange. Israel has released 150 Palestinian bodies to Gaza, including 15 on Sunday. Only 25 of the returned bodies have been identified. Earlier exchanges included 20 living hostages traded for more than 1,900 Palestinian prisoners.

Ceasefire Implementation and Governance Talks

A Hamas delegation led by chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya arrived in Cairo to advance discussions on the ceasefire. The next phase of talks is expected to address disarming Hamas, further Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, and future governance arrangements. U.S. mediators have proposed establishing an internationally backed administrative authority.

Hamas spokesperson Hazem Kassem stated that the group is engaged in discussions to “solidify its positions” and reiterated that it would not participate in postwar governance, calling instead for the creation of a Palestinian technocratic body to manage daily affairs. “Government agencies in Gaza continue to perform their duties, as the power vacuum is very dangerous,” he added.

Casualty Figures and Humanitarian Situation

The Gaza Health Ministry reports over 68,000 deaths in the conflict, without distinguishing between civilians and combatants. Israel has challenged these figures but has not provided an official toll. Thousands more are reported missing, according to the Red Cross.

Hamas-led militants killed approximately 1,200 people, mainly civilians, and abducted 251 individuals during the initial attack in October 2023 that triggered the current war.

Source: AP News – Renewed fighting tests Gaza ceasefire and Israel briefly halts aid

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The fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas has brought a brief calm to Gaza after two years of devastating conflict, but for most residents, daily life remains a struggle for survival. Amid ruins, rising prices, and fragile aid flows, Gazans face an uneasy peace filled with uncertainty and loss.

Life After Ceasefire: Hope Shadowed by Fear

For Bassil Naggar, a displaced father in the coastal Muwasi area, nights are finally silent after months of relentless airstrikes. Yet the relief is fragile. “Life after the ceasefire is still anxious. Is the war really over?” he said, recalling the deadly March bombings that shattered a previous truce.

Naggar’s home in eastern Khan Younis lies in ashes, and the tent he now shares with his family is thinning as winter approaches. “We survive mostly on canned food—fava beans, chickpeas,” he said. While markets have begun to reopen, basic items like instant noodles and potatoes remain costly.

Humanitarian Aid Slowly Expands but Still Falls Short

The World Food Program (WFP) said it is scaling up food assistance across Gaza after months of blockade and displacement. “We’re still below what we need, but we’re getting there,” WFP spokesperson Abeer Etefa said Friday in Geneva. Damaged infrastructure and limited border access continue to hamper efforts.

Under the current ceasefire, hundreds of trucks are expected to enter Gaza daily, carrying essential aid. However, residents say the difference remains barely visible. Naggar, who has been displaced more than a dozen times since 2023, said he hasn’t noticed a major change in supplies since the truce began.

Earlier this week, aid deliveries briefly halted during a prisoner exchange and a Jewish holiday, highlighting the fragility of humanitarian access. Israel had warned it might limit crossings, citing delays in Hamas’s return of hostages’ remains.

Two Years of Devastation and Loss

The war began with the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack that killed about 1,200 people in Israel and abducted 251. Israel’s subsequent offensive has killed nearly 68,000 Palestinians, according to Gaza’s Health Ministry, whose records are considered generally reliable by the United Nations and independent experts.

Entire neighborhoods across northern and central Gaza remain in ruins. Returning families often find nothing left but fragments of their past lives. Mohamed Samy, who revisited his home in Jabaliya, found only rubble. “Even drinking water, I have to walk an hour to fetch from a truck,” he said.

Charity Kitchens and Soaring Prices Reflect the Ongoing Crisis

In Deir al-Balah, hundreds queue daily at charity kitchens. Fatima Shaat, displaced from Khan Younis, said she waited six hours for a bowl of rice. “There is no possibility of buying what we want,” added Basma Abu Al-Kheir. Prices for vegetables such as tomatoes and cucumbers remain inflated, while poultry and meat are scarce.

Local markets have reopened in parts of central Gaza, but most residents can only afford the basics. Fida Ziyad, who lost her home in northern Gaza, said she still feels unsafe. “Normal life hasn’t returned. Everything feels temporary,” she said.

Aid Agencies Resume Work Amid Uncertainty

The United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) reported that nine aid organizations have resumed limited operations in Gaza City and northern areas. These efforts include food distribution and temporary shelter programs.

Despite these advances, aid workers warn that the situation remains precarious. “Without sustained access and reconstruction, the humanitarian crisis will persist,” said one UN field coordinator, citing challenges in restoring water and sanitation networks.

Famine Fears and Denials

In August, the Global Network Against Food Crises classified Gaza City as experiencing famine conditions. The report warned that hunger could spread if restrictions continued. Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dismissed the assessment as “an outright lie,” insisting that aid was flowing.

Aid groups counter that limited crossings, fuel shortages, and damaged infrastructure have made distribution nearly impossible. Malnutrition among children has surged, according to UNICEF data cited by humanitarian monitors.

A Fragile Path Forward

For many Gazans, the ceasefire feels like an intermission rather than an end. “It’s good that the bloodshed has stopped, but we have lost everything,” said Ayman Abu Saif, a former restaurant worker now dependent on charity kitchens. His small victory came recently when he managed to buy three apples for his children—the first in over a year.

But Abu Saif doubts he can ever return home. “There is no water, no infrastructure. Even if I wanted to, I can’t go back,” he said. His six-year-old son still has no access to education. “I don’t want my kids to think this is what life is—to chase food and water. That’s not living.”

Rebuilding Amid Ruins

Across Gaza, residents comb through debris searching for remnants of normal life—an old photograph, a child’s toy, a fragment of home. These scenes reflect both survival and heartbreak.

While international mediators praise the ceasefire as a step toward stability, most Gazans remain skeptical. Until sustained reconstruction, political reconciliation, and full humanitarian access are secured, peace will remain fragile and incomplete.

Source: AP News – Daily struggles persist in Gaza even as ceasefire offers some respite

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Published: October 14, 2025, 21:45 EDT

SHARM EL-SHEIKH, Egypt — U.S. President Donald Trump urged Middle Eastern leaders to move beyond decades of division and conflict, calling for “a new era of harmony” during a global summit on Gaza’s reconstruction held Monday in Egypt.

Trump’s remarks came after visiting Israel earlier in the day, where he marked the implementation of a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas — a truce that aims to end two years of deadly conflict that began in 2023.

“We have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to put the old feuds and bitter hatreds behind us,” Trump said. “Our future must not be ruled by the fights of generations past.”

Leaders Gather for Summit on Gaza’s Future

Nearly three dozen nations, including European and Middle Eastern countries, attended the summit hosted in Sharm el-Sheikh. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Qatari Emir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani joined Trump in signing a declaration outlining a long-term plan for Gaza’s recovery and regional cooperation.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declined to attend, citing a Jewish holiday, but later praised the peace efforts from Jerusalem.

The document presented at the summit set a broad vision for Gaza’s postwar future, focusing on reconstruction, governance, and security cooperation. Despite lingering uncertainty about implementation, Trump emphasized that momentum toward regional reconciliation was “already unfolding before the world’s eyes.”

Trump’s Symbolic Visit to Israel

Earlier that day, Trump addressed Israel’s Knesset, where he was welcomed as a “hero” by lawmakers and citizens. During his speech, he declared, “You’ve won. Now it is time to translate these victories on the battlefield into the ultimate prize of peace and prosperity for the entire Middle East.”

He pledged U.S. support for Gaza’s reconstruction and called on Palestinians to abandon “the path of terror and violence.” Trump said it was time “to build their people up instead of trying to tear Israel down.”

In a rare gesture toward Iran — which clashed with Israel earlier in the year — Trump stated that “the hand of friendship and cooperation is always open,” referencing his administration’s controversial strikes on Iranian nuclear sites during the brief war.

Ceasefire Implementation and Humanitarian Efforts

The ceasefire agreement, brokered with U.S. and regional mediation, calls for a phased exchange of hostages and prisoners, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and a partial withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza’s main cities.

Twenty hostages were released Monday as part of the deal, which also includes commitments to reopen five border crossings to increase the flow of essential goods into Gaza, where famine and infrastructure collapse have devastated nearly two million residents.

The White House said roughly 200 U.S. troops, alongside partner nations and NGOs, will assist in monitoring and supporting the truce’s early phases.

Reactions from Regional Leaders

Trump’s visit drew enthusiastic reactions from Israeli lawmakers, who chanted his name and gave him multiple standing ovations. Some attendees wore red caps reading “Trump, The Peace President,” echoing his previous campaign slogan.

Netanyahu hailed him as “the greatest friend Israel has ever had in the White House,” pledging continued cooperation in the peace process. “Mr. President, you are committed to this peace. I am committed to this peace. Together, we will achieve it,” Netanyahu said.

In a surprising moment, Trump publicly called for a pardon for Netanyahu, who faces ongoing corruption charges. The move underscored Trump’s willingness to intertwine political gestures with peace diplomacy — a characteristic hallmark of his foreign policy style.

A Fragile Yet Hopeful Moment for the Region

While the ceasefire marks a turning point, analysts caution that challenges remain. The postwar governance of Gaza, the future of Hamas, and Israel’s security demands have yet to be finalized.

Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, “The war is over, OK? People are tired of it. And that’s why this peace will hold.”

The U.S. and allied governments argue that the truce presents a rare opportunity to reset Israel’s long-fraught relations with its Arab neighbors.

According to a White House statement, Arab and Muslim nations are showing “renewed focus on resolving the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict” and strengthening ties with Washington.

Gaza’s Reconstruction Challenges

Gaza’s physical and humanitarian devastation remains vast. Large swaths of the territory have been reduced to rubble, and much of its population faces displacement and hunger.

Trump previously envisioned Gaza as “the Riviera of the Middle East,” but on Sunday, he tempered expectations. “It’s blasted. This is like a demolition site,” he said, though adding, “I’d like to put my feet on it one day, at least.”

As reconstruction efforts begin, experts note that sustained funding, regional cooperation, and political compromise will be essential for lasting peace.

Outlook: A Test for Lasting Peace

The success of Trump’s proposed peace framework depends on coordinated diplomacy and consistent international support. While many remain skeptical, the summit signaled a renewed willingness among key regional actors to prioritize stability over confrontation.

For millions across the Middle East, the hope is that this ceasefire — however fragile — could mark the beginning of an enduring peace.

Source: AP News – Trump urges leaders to put ‘old feuds’ aside as he calls for a new era of harmony in the Middle East

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The fragile ceasefire in Gaza shattered early Tuesday as Israel launched a wave of deadly airstrikes across the enclave. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared that Israel had “returned to fighting,” vowing to apply “increasing military strength” against Hamas.

Deadliest Day in Over 15 Months

According to Palestinian authorities, over 400 people were killed in the overnight bombardment, marking Gaza’s deadliest day in more than 15 months. The strikes targeted multiple locations, with Israel’s Defense Minister, Israel Katz, stating: “Tonight we returned to fighting in Gaza.”

The truce, which had been in place for months, was already in jeopardy as negotiations stalled over the release of remaining Israeli hostages and the potential for a lasting peace.

Israel and Hamas Exchange Accusations

The Israeli military confirmed “extensive strikes” on Hamas targets, while Hamas accused Netanyahu of deliberately overturning the ceasefire and endangering hostages. In a televised speech, Netanyahu justified the renewed military action, claiming Hamas had refused to release hostages or accept a U.S.-backed truce extension.

Hamas spokesperson Abdul Latif Al-Qanou refuted Netanyahu’s claims, insisting the group had not rejected the U.S. proposal and remained engaged in talks with mediators.

High Civilian Toll and Healthcare Crisis

Gaza’s Health Ministry reported that over 170 children were among the dead, with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) describing it as one of the highest single-day child death tolls globally in the past year.

Dr. Razan Al-Nahhas, a volunteer physician at Al-Ahli Hospital in Gaza City, described the devastation: “Babies and children all over the floor, bleeding from their heads, abdomens, and limbs. The hospital is overwhelmed.”

Videos showed families rushing wounded relatives to overcrowded hospitals, while rescue workers transported the injured in ambulances or on makeshift stretchers. Many victims were wrapped in bloodstained blankets, with hospitals reporting civilian homes among the primary targets.

Mass Evacuations and Fear of Further Displacement

Later on Tuesday, the Israeli military announced a “massive offensive” and ordered evacuations from multiple neighborhoods, heightening fears of further displacement. Residents described scenes of destruction, with one witness, Rajab Abu Sultan, recounting how bodies of children were pulled from the rubble. “There was no prior warning,” he said.

Regional Tensions Escalate

The renewed fighting in Gaza coincides with heightened tensions in the Middle East. The U.S. launched airstrikes against Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen, while cross-border clashes between Israel and Lebanon escalated. The Houthi rebels vowed to continue attacks on American and Israeli interests until hostilities in Gaza cease.

International Response and Political Fallout

The United Nations Security Council held an emergency session, where the U.S. placed sole blame for the resumed hostilities on Hamas. Charge d’Affaires Dorothy Shea stated: “Hamas has steadfastly refused every proposal for peace.”

Meanwhile, Israeli politics saw a shake-up as far-right politician Itamar Ben Gvir rejoined Netanyahu’s government following the resumption of military action. However, former hostages and advocacy groups condemned the renewed offensive, arguing it endangers the remaining captives and urging a return to negotiations.

Uncertain Path Forward

Israel’s decision to resume strikes comes days after the U.S. proposed a deal offering a month-long ceasefire extension in exchange for hostage releases and increased humanitarian aid. Hamas claimed to have approved part of the proposal, but Israeli officials dismissed their response as insufficient.

An Israeli official described the extensive airstrikes as “preemptive,” warning they would continue “as long as necessary.” Hamas denied Israeli claims that it had violated the ceasefire or planned attacks, calling them a pretext for war.

As violence intensifies, efforts to restore peace remain uncertain, with civilians caught in the crossfire of a deepening conflict.

Source: CNN – Gaza truce shatters as Israel carries out wave of deadly strikes and says it has ‘returned to fighting’

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Israel has announced it is cutting off electricity supplies to Gaza, a move that could have significant impacts on the region. The full effects of the decision are not yet clear, but it is known that Gaza’s desalination plants, which provide drinking water to the territory’s 2 million residents, rely on electricity to operate.

This announcement follows Israel’s recent suspension of all goods shipments into Gaza. The blockade aims to pressure Hamas to extend the first phase of the ceasefire agreement, which ended last weekend. Israel’s terms for an extension include the release of half of the remaining hostages held by Hamas in exchange for further negotiations toward a lasting truce.

Hamas Rejects Israel’s Ceasefire Proposal

Hamas, however, has rejected Israel’s demands. The militant group has called for the start of the more challenging second phase of the ceasefire, which involves further discussions on a long-term peace agreement. On Sunday, Hamas stated that its most recent round of talks with Egyptian mediators concluded without any shift in its position, emphasizing that the second phase of the ceasefire should begin immediately.

Energy Minister Orders Halt to Power Supply

In response to the ongoing tensions, Israel’s energy minister has directed the Israel Electric Corporation to cease its power supply to Gaza. The region, already devastated by the ongoing conflict, is heavily reliant on alternative sources of power, such as generators and solar panels.

The Ceasefire and Its Fragile Peace

The ceasefire has brought a temporary halt to the devastating fighting between Israel and Hamas, which erupted following Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on October 7, 2023. The first phase of the ceasefire allowed for the return of 25 living hostages and the remains of eight others in exchange for the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners.

Since then, Israeli forces have withdrawn to buffer zones within Gaza. As a result, hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have been able to return to northern Gaza, marking the first time many of them have returned since the conflict’s escalation. In addition, humanitarian aid was flowing into Gaza until Israel suspended these supplies in response to the ongoing standoff.

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The deadline for initiating talks on extending the Gaza ceasefire came and went on Monday with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington, leaving the next steps for the fragile truce uncertain. The ceasefire, which has been in effect for just over two weeks, is set to expire on March 1. Under the terms of the agreement, negotiations for the next phase were meant to begin by Monday, but as of now, there’s no word from Netanyahu’s office on when or if a negotiating team will meet with Hamas.

Missing Negotiators: No Team Yet to Meet Hamas

As of Monday, the Israeli government has not publicly named a negotiating team for the upcoming talks. Meanwhile, Hamas, which has been silent on the deadline, has sent its own delegation to Qatar and Egypt this week. Qatar’s Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani, who has acted as a mediator in past negotiations, acknowledged the uncertainty, stating on Sunday that there were “no clear details” on when talks might begin. He added that they hoped to see progress in the coming days.

Netanyahu’s Focus Shifts to Washington

Rather than engaging directly with Hamas, Netanyahu’s attention seems focused on Washington. The Israeli Prime Minister is set to meet with U.S. President Donald Trump this week, marking him as the first foreign leader to meet Trump officially since the latter took office. Netanyahu’s office announced that he and Trump’s Middle East envoy had agreed that discussions on the second phase of the hostage deal would begin with their meeting in Washington, where they would outline Israel’s positions.

Ceasefire Details: A Fragile Pause

The current ceasefire, which began on January 19, has led to the release of 18 hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Israel releasing 583 Palestinians, including some serving life sentences and children held without trial. Israeli forces have withdrawn from Gaza’s population centers, humanitarian aid has flowed into the enclave, and the Rafah border crossing with Egypt has reopened for the first time since May 2023 for the evacuation of injured and sick Palestinians.

Despite a few violations, the ceasefire has largely held—representing the second major pause in the conflict in 15 months. However, the ceasefire was always intended to last just 42 days, meaning the next phase of talks should have started by Monday. Netanyahu’s delay in addressing Hamas directly has raised concerns that Israel is breaching the terms of the deal.

Next Phase: Full Withdrawal and More Hostage Exchanges

The second phase of the truce, which CNN understands would involve a complete withdrawal of Israeli military forces from Gaza and the release of all remaining hostages (both soldiers and civilians), is at the heart of these stalled negotiations. More Palestinian prisoners would be released in exchange for the hostages, a crucial part of the deal yet to be addressed.

Tensions Within the Israeli Government

Netanyahu’s delay in moving forward with talks has sparked criticism, including from veteran Israeli negotiator and peace activist Gershon Baskin. Baskin pointed out that Netanyahu’s refusal to engage with Hamas on time constitutes a violation of the ceasefire agreement and risks endangering the hostages.

At the same time, Netanyahu is under pressure from within his own government. U.S. President Trump, who has been credited with facilitating the current ceasefire, has also advocated for the forced migration of Gaza’s 2 million residents. This controversial stance aligns with the views of far-right ministers in Netanyahu’s coalition. Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich has supported the idea of encouraging Palestinian migration out of Gaza, claiming it would alleviate suffering and bring security to Israel. Smotrich, who previously opposed the 2005 Gaza withdrawal, has threatened to withdraw from the government if Israel does not renew its offensive in Gaza after the current ceasefire phase ends.

Growing Political Fractures

The ceasefire has already caused fractures within the Israeli government. Far-right Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir pulled his party from the coalition, denouncing the ceasefire as a capitulation. Smotrich has made similar threats, further complicating Netanyahu’s political calculus as he navigates these delicate negotiations.

In sum, the truce’s future is hanging in the balance as Netanyahu prioritizes his discussions with Trump over direct negotiations with Hamas, leaving many questions unanswered about the next phase of the fragile ceasefire. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the ceasefire holds, whether hostages are freed, and whether Israel’s internal political tensions escalate further.

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In the early hours of a pivotal night at a lavish Doha clubhouse, the air was thick with tension. Negotiations aimed at halting the war in Gaza had dragged on for months, with no breakthrough in sight. It was nearly 3 a.m. when the parties involved – bitter enemies who would not even speak directly to each other – seemed to have reached a turning point.

The Players: Hamas and Israel’s Negotiators

On the first floor, a Hamas delegation, led by a leader who had survived an Israeli airstrike that killed seven of his family members, scrutinized a new ceasefire proposal. Meanwhile, on the second floor, Israeli intelligence advisers, still seeking justice for the October 7 attack by Hamas that killed over 1,200 Israelis, reviewed the same terms.

The stakes were high, with Qatari, U.S., and Egyptian mediators pushing both sides to pause the violence and bring dozens of Israeli hostages home. But trust was scarce.

“They were extremely suspicious of each other. No trust at all,” recalled an Egyptian official involved in the negotiations. For hours, both sides debated terms, particularly over the details of troop withdrawals and Israel’s demand for a list of hostages. Every word felt like a potential trap.

By Wednesday evening, Qatar’s Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani finally announced a ceasefire agreement. But the relief was tempered by lingering tensions, with disputes over details still unresolved in the days that followed. Despite the challenges, a fragile ceasefire held, with three Israeli women released from captivity and dozens of Palestinian prisoners freed.

A Year-Long Road to Dealmaking

The path to this ceasefire was not swift. It was a culmination of over a year of tense negotiations and shifting political landscapes. “Everything aligned in the last week in a way that brought the long negotiations to fruition after 15 months of bloodshed,” said Mehran Kamrava, a Georgetown University professor based in Qatar.

The Broader Context

The agreement unfolded against the backdrop of a U.S. presidential transition, with both President Biden and his predecessor, Donald Trump, eager to bring the war to an end. The conflict had claimed over 47,000 lives in Gaza, many of them women and children, while Israel had seen 1,200 of its citizens killed in the Hamas attacks.

Qatar, a small but wealthy nation, played a central role as a mediator. Hosting both the largest U.S. military base in the region and offices for leaders of Hamas and the Taliban, Qatar positioned itself as a neutral go-between in an increasingly volatile Middle East. Egypt, too, worked diligently to keep the talks moving forward, with an eye on preventing further instability.

Unlikely Partners: Biden and Trump Allies in Negotiations

What made this moment in history particularly remarkable was the involvement of unlikely allies. While U.S. President Joe Biden sent veteran Middle East negotiator Brett McGurk, former President Donald Trump tapped real estate billionaire Steve Witkoff, a man with no diplomatic experience but strong ties to Qatar. Together, they worked to push both sides toward a deal.

The breakthrough came after months of deadlock, particularly over the numbers of hostages and prisoners to be released and the specifics of Israel’s troop pullback. President Biden had initially outlined a deal in May, but talks faltered after Israel’s bomb killed Ismail Haniyeh, the head of Hamas’ political bureau, and the discovery of six Israeli hostages’ bodies in Gaza.

Resuming Negotiations After a Pause

The talks experienced setbacks in the summer, as Israeli forces intensified their military operations and Qatari mediators temporarily suspended efforts. But after Witkoff’s involvement in late November, momentum began to build. He met with Israeli officials before returning to Doha, where progress was made in December.

“Witkoff and McGurk were pushing the Israelis, Qatar was pushing Hamas,” said an official familiar with the process. This cooperation was pivotal in pushing the talks forward.

Last-Minute Hiccups and Final Agreement

By early January, the situation had finally shifted. Hamas agreed to provide a list of hostages to be released in the first phase, and both sides seemed to be nearing an agreement. On January 11, Witkoff flew to Israel for a crucial meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu, while McGurk worked the phones from Washington. Negotiations continued late into the night at Qatar’s prime minister’s office, with representatives from both sides never crossing paths.

The last-minute technical details, including disagreements over the buffer zone in Gaza and the list of prisoners to be released, delayed the final deal. Yet, after extensive negotiations that stretched into the early morning hours, the breakthrough came: a ceasefire agreement.

The deal was not without complications. Last-minute demands from Hamas and Israel’s accusations of changes to agreed-upon terms led to more back-and-forth. However, after another round of separate meetings, the deal was finally announced, though both sides continued discussions on implementation.

What’s Next: A Fragile Peace

The ceasefire deal represents a critical moment in the ongoing Gaza conflict, but it is still fragile. Israeli President Isaac Herzog expressed hope that it could foster goodwill and rebuilding, but the road ahead remains uncertain. Both sides are set to resume talks in just over a week to work on the second phase, which includes the release of all remaining hostages and a permanent ceasefire.

Negotiators are preparing for even tougher discussions ahead, and the future of the region remains in delicate balance.

This rewrite clarifies key moments and breaks the narrative into sections that emphasize the importance of the ceasefire, the complexity of the negotiations, and the unlikely partnerships that helped make it possible. It also highlights the ongoing challenges in the implementation phase of the deal.

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A ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is set to take effect Sunday morning at 8:30 a.m. local time (0630 GMT), as announced by Qatar, which has acted as a mediator. This ceasefire, a critical step toward ending the intense and destructive 15-month conflict, will bring hope to families anxiously awaiting news of loved ones and provide some relief for the people of Gaza who have endured severe hardships.

Israel’s Cautious Stance

In a national address just hours before the ceasefire was set to begin, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasized that Israel views the ceasefire as temporary and retains the right to continue military action if necessary. He also highlighted support from President-elect Donald Trump, who reportedly told Netanyahu to “keep doing what you have to do.” Despite the deal, Netanyahu faced internal opposition, with far-right Public Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir announcing his resignation over the terms of the ceasefire.

The agreement comes after Israel’s Cabinet approved the deal during a rare meeting on the Jewish Sabbath. Tensions remain high as families of hostages, including those of Matan Angrest, continue to push for their loved ones’ safe return. Anat Angrest, Matan’s mother, urged the government to “keep going and saving lives.”

Phases of the Ceasefire

The ceasefire will unfold in two phases:

1. Phase One (42 days): Israel will pull its troops back to a buffer zone inside Gaza, about 0.6 miles from the border. During this period, there will be significant exchanges of prisoners and hostages.
2. Phase Two: This phase will begin after two weeks, focusing on more challenging negotiations, with a final decision to be made by Israel’s security Cabinet after six weeks.

Continued Hostilities and Casualties

Even as the ceasefire nears, violence continues. Israeli airstrikes targeted Gaza overnight, killing 23 people, while sirens went off in southern Israel as missiles launched from Yemen were intercepted. This marks a period of heightened regional tension, with Iran-backed Houthi rebels joining the conflict in solidarity with Palestinians in Gaza.

Hostage and Prisoner Exchange

In the first phase of the ceasefire, 33 hostages from Israel are set to be freed over the next six weeks. In return, 737 Palestinian prisoners will be released. The first release is scheduled for Sunday, starting with three female hostages, and further exchanges will follow. Among those being released is Kfir Bibas, the youngest hostage, whose second birthday was marked with prayers for his safe return.

Israel’s justice ministry has published the list of prisoners to be freed, including minors and women. However, groups representing victims of Palestinian attacks are already planning to challenge the releases in Israel’s Supreme Court.

Additionally, 1,167 residents of Gaza who were not involved in the October 2023 Hamas-led attack will be released, with women and children under 19 given priority. Palestinian prisoners convicted of violent attacks will be exiled to Gaza or abroad.

Humanitarian Aid Surge

Gaza is also set to receive a significant boost in humanitarian aid during the ceasefire, with 600 trucks, including 50 carrying fuel, expected to enter daily. The Rafah crossing, Gaza’s key gateway, will soon reopen under Egyptian management, though all trucks will undergo Israeli inspections.

U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that despite this aid, distribution will face challenges in Gaza, where the humanitarian situation remains dire.

The Human Toll of the Conflict

The toll of the conflict has been devastating. The Hamas-led attack in October 2023 killed around 1,200 people, and nearly 100 hostages remain in Gaza. In response, Israel’s offensive has claimed over 46,000 Palestinian lives, the majority of whom are women and children, according to local health officials.

The ceasefire is a crucial first step toward ending the deadliest and most destructive conflict in the region’s recent history, providing some hope for a return to peace and stability.

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