After several months of intensive negotiations led by the United States, Egypt, and Qatar, Israel and Hamas have agreed to a Gaza ceasefire and hostage release deal.
United States President Joe Biden announced on January 15, 2025, the successful conclusion of a ceasefire agreement between the two nations.
The three phase peace deal, Biden said aims to ‘halt ongoing fighting in Gaza,’ provide critical humanitarian aid to Palestinian civilians, and ‘reunite hostages who have endured over 15 months in captivity.’
“I outlined the specifics of this plan on May 31, 2024, and it received unanimous approval from the UN Security Council,” Biden stated.
He attributed the breakthrough to dedicated American diplomacy, regional changes, and sustained pressure on Hamas highlighting the importance of the agreement,.
“It is long past time for the fighting to end and for the work of building peace and security to begin,” Biden added.
The agreement holds particular significance for American families.
“Three families still have loved ones held hostage in Gaza, while four await the return of remains,” Biden explained.
He reiterated the U.S. commitment to ensuring the hostages’ safe return.
As the ceasefire comes into effect, Biden shared his relief that “hostages are being reunited with their families,” offering hope for a long-awaited resolution in the region.
White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre revealed that Biden involved the Trump team in the process who was tasked with implementing the ceasefire deal.
“In these past few days, we have been speaking as one team,” Biden said.
Israel’s cabinet is scheduled to vote on Thursday regarding the proposed Gaza ceasefire deal, which includes a hostage-prisoner exchange. The truce, expected to begin Sunday, was brokered by Qatar with input from both the U.S. and Trump.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed gratitude on Twitter, thanking Trump for his efforts in “advancing the release of the hostages and helping Israel bring an end to the suffering of dozens of hostages and their families.”
Netanyahu also pledged to ensure the return of all hostages and commended Trump for emphasizing that Gaza must “never be a haven for terrorism.” Netanyahu also conveyed his appreciation to President Biden for his vital role in securing the agreement.
