Israel and Hamas Agree to Six-Week Ceasefire with Prisoner Exchange

The truce, beginning Sunday, includes the release of 33 Israeli hostages by Hamas and 1,904 Palestinian detainees by Israel.

The ceasefire will take effect at 7:30 AM CET on Sunday, following approval by both the Israeli government and Hamas, with Qatar mediating the agreement.
Hamas is set to release 33 hostages, including three Israeli women as the first group, while Israel will free 1,904 Palestinian detainees in phases over six weeks.
The prisoner exchange includes individuals convicted of serious crimes, such as murder, and others detained for minor offenses, sparking debate within Israeli politics.
The deal also allows for increased humanitarian aid to Gaza, reopening of the Rafah border crossing, and potential return of displaced Palestinians to northern Gaza under international oversight.
Uncertainty remains over the long-term stability of the agreement, with unresolved issues including the future governance of Gaza and mutual distrust between the parties.