Israel continues airstrikes despite ceasefire, hostage release agreement for Gaza

Israel intensified airstrikes on Gaza just hours after a ceasefire and hostage release deal was announced, according to residents and authorities in the Palestinian enclave. The complex ceasefire agreement, reached after months of mediation by Qatar, Egypt, and the United States, outlines a six-week ceasefire, the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Why it matters

The ceasefire represents a critical step in ending the ongoing violence in Gaza and addressing the humanitarian crisis. If successful, it will allow much-needed aid into the region and offer a potential path toward lasting peace, although concerns remain about the full implementation of the agreement.

Details

• Ceasefire agreement: The agreement includes a six-week ceasefire with a gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. In return, Palestinian prisoners will be released, and hostages taken by Hamas will be freed in phases. The first phase will involve the release of 33 hostages, including women, children, and elderly men.

• Israel continues attacks: Despite the announcement, Israeli airstrikes continued, killing at least 46 Palestinians. Gaza militants also fired a rocket into Israel, which caused no casualties.
• Humanitarian assistance: The deal includes provisions for a surge in humanitarian aid to Gaza, with the U.N. and the International Committee of the Red Cross preparing to scale up their operations.
• Global reactions: World leaders, including from the U.S., Türkiye, Egypt, and the E.U., welcomed the agreement. Both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump claimed credit for facilitating the deal.
• Concerns over full implementation: Families of Israeli hostages expressed concern that the agreement may not be fully implemented, leaving some hostages behind in Gaza.

Zoom in

If successful, the ceasefire could significantly reduce the suffering in Gaza, where tens of thousands have died and millions have been displaced. It could also help ease tensions in the wider Middle East, particularly between Israel and its neighbors.

Zoom out

While the ceasefire is an important first step, the long-term future of Gaza remains uncertain. Negotiations will continue on the second phase, which includes the full release of hostages, a permanent ceasefire, and Gaza’s reconstruction. The question of who will govern Gaza post-war remains unresolved, which will be key to ensuring lasting peace in the region.