In a breakthrough facilitated by Qatari mediators, Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire agreement to end the 15-month conflict in Gaza, Qatar’s Foreign Ministry announced on Tuesday. The deal, brokered after weeks of intense negotiations, aims to halt hostilities and address urgent humanitarian concerns in the region.
According to the statement, the ceasefire will take effect at midnight local time and includes provisions for the immediate cessation of rocket fire from Gaza and airstrikes by Israel. Both sides have agreed to establish mechanisms for easing restrictions on the Gaza Strip, allowing for the flow of humanitarian aid, medical supplies, and fuel into the region.
“This agreement is a significant step toward restoring calm and alleviating the suffering of civilians on both sides,” a Qatari spokesperson said.
The 15-month conflict has claimed thousands of lives and displaced countless families. International organizations have repeatedly called for an end to the violence, citing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the agreement, urging all parties to honor the terms of the ceasefire and work toward a sustainable solution to the crisis.
As part of the deal, discussions are expected to begin on prisoner exchanges and longer-term measures to address the underlying tensions between Israel and Hamas. Regional actors, including Egypt and the United States, have expressed support for the agreement and pledged to monitor its implementation.
While the announcement has been met with cautious optimism, experts warn that maintaining the truce will require continuous dialogue and mutual restraint. The international community will be closely watching how the agreement unfolds in the coming days.
